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2013 Abstracts

Theatre Methods in the English Classroom: Assessing the Possible Efficacy of “The Living Literature Project”

Machaela Burt, Utah State University

Theatre Arts

This research study explores the efficacy of the “Living Literature Project”, a program that teaches traditional English curriculum in high school classrooms using theatre-based strategies to enhance understanding of Shakespearean texts. The study was piloted with two control classes and two intervention classes in 2012 with strategies such as viewing performances by experienced actors during class and paraphrasing texts into modern speech to assess the impact on learning through the use of teacher-administered pre and post project surveys assessing student attitudes towards Shakespeare as well as content quizzes. The results of the pilot study suggested that students who participated in the project achieved higher quiz scores, but their attitudes about Shakespeare were not changed. The pilot study informed further developments of the teaching strategies and led to further curriculum development. The project is currently in session for the 12-13 school year. The study is being expanded to include a larger number of classes that will also assess teacher satisfaction with the academic progress made by the students involved. The results will be assessed through revised surveys and quizzes as well as focus groups with the students. Results are anticipated in April 2013. The pilot study suggested that arts integration and the building of cross-curricular relationships have a positive effect on student learning. The current study hopes to reinforce these results with more accurate assessments and to see increased topical interest, measured through focus groups.