VSA Arts Connect All

2022

Improvisation is a key method in many theater programs (e.g. Yale School of Drama). Improvisation offers K-12 schools flexible, low-cost ways to embed theater across the curriculum. Improvisation also represents a strategy for integrating arts, academic, and social-emotional learning. A single improvisational exercise offers practice in conceptualizing artistic ideas, speaking and listening, collaborating, and developing social awareness all concepts found in national arts, academic, and social-emotional learning standards. Consistent with the practices of Universal Design for Learning (UDL), improvisation offers educators strategies to provide multiple means of representation, expression, and engagement. As a flexible art form, improvisation aligns with techniques for creating appropriate challenge for students with disabilities, including instructional scaffolding and task analysis. The Center on Education and Lifelong Learning at IUs Indiana Institute on Disability and Community proposes to offer professional development that focuses on improvisational theater as a means of strengthening arts education and integration, deepening engagement, and increasing academic achievement for students with disabilities. Day-long workshops will be offered to Indiana educators teaching the arts to students with disabilities in the middle and high school grades. The target audience includes general and special educators, speech-language pathologists, and school counselors, social workers, and psychologists.

Improv, professional development, arts

Continuing Education/Community Training

Education & Early Intervention, Quality of Life

Professionals and Para-Professionals

None

State

N/A