Children of Drama: An Arts-Based Educational Action Research Project Applied to a Group of In-Service Educators

Authors

• Theodora Salti University of Lapland

DOI: https://doi.org/10.54916/rae.122762

Keywords:

arts-based educational action research, drama pedagogy, in-service teachers, professional development in drama education, drama pedagogical instructor, drama pedagogical environments

Abstract

Children of Drama is an arts-based educational action research project with five drama pedagogy actions, launched in 2019 at the University of Gävle, Sweden. It aimed to explore drama pedagogy’s personal and professional impacts on a group of in-service educators using Winnicott’s potential space theory. The results revealed that participants enriched their teaching method toolbox with drama pedagogical techniques and theories, fostering self-exploration and motivation to use drama in the classroom. Notably, the qualities of the drama pedagogical instructor and environment enhanced safety, inspiration, and engagement. This study contributes to research in drama pedagogy and educators’ arts-based professional development.