Spheres of Influence: Ventures and Visions in Educational Development*

3-6 July, 2002
The University of Western Australia
Perth, Western Australia

Abstract

Using educational sociodrama to enrich learning

J. Kaya Prpic, Monash University, Australia

Participants in this highly interactive experiential workshop will have the opportunity to learn about the sociodramatic techniques that can be used in an educational setting. We will look at the concerns that students, faculty and staff may have with regard to diversity and difference. Using the techniques of sociodrama we will address an issue of "diversity" that is of concern to the group as a whole. The issue we finally explore may be one of faculty development, staff development, curriculum development or program development. Through sociodramatic activities, we will openly share and address issues, and come up with ideas for improvement within the campus community.

Sociodrama is particularly useful in an organisation that consists of people with diverse backgrounds, customs, beliefs and attitudes. Within a university setting, sociodrama can be used to create a unified (but not homogeneous) community, encouraging interactions between individuals who may differ in ethnicity, gender, age, religion, learning style and socio-economic status. When individuals can relate to each other in a freer and more active way, they build an environment of trust and mutual respect. Thus sociodrama can be used to create, develop and integrate relationships between faculty members to build a collaborative learning community, where diverse inputs add quality and value to the whole learning environment.

Sociodrama uses drama and action to explore collective social role issues in a community setting. Sociodrama provides us with an opportunity to step into the shoes of the "Other" and explore the situation from the "Other's" perspective. A sociodrama session allows participants to explore differences in role and status in society, or to examine a group or social problem or dilemma. Multiple solutions can be proposed, tested and evaluated sociodramatically, giving new insights or breakthroughs in thinking. This is vital for the initiation of change, and if appropriate, expanding new role development.

Key words:
Sociodrama; Diversity; Creative problem solving

Objectives, outcomes and activities:
In this highly interactive experiential workshop participants will have the opportunity to learn about the sociodramatic techniques that can be used in an educational setting. A handbook detailed the basics of sociodrama will be provided to all participants.

Kaya Prpic has worked extensively with academics in Australia, Thailand, Germany and Sweden in educational reform and has undertaken a variety of instructional design, curriculum development teaching methodology development, and staff development projects. She is passionate about education and the role of all parties (student, teacher, institution and community) in the learning process. She has a deep interest in integrated teaching methodologies, and in the role of knowledge models and multicultural influences in learning outcomes.

Contact: Kaya Prpic, email: kaya.prpic@infotech.monash.edu.au