Program Overview

Study and research how drama education motivates students, creates confidence in speaking and uses language in cultural contexts with purpose at Department of Education Studies. You will learn across two departments, gaining subject knowledge both in drama education and in TESOL materials and strategies. You will work practically and collaboratively to make connections between drama and theatre and language learning.

This unique MA programme offers an in-depth insight into the ways drama and theatre education can enhance teaching and learning in primary, secondary and tertiary education, specifically in the field of English Language Teaching and Learning.

We introduce you to a range of hybrid pedagogic strategies that are underpinned by rigor and that aspire to make language learning accessible, playful, creative and engaging. You will engage with cutting-edge theory and practice-led research related to the ways drama and theatre can be used as pedagogical tools. This MA is aimed at practitioners working in schools and colleges, and community and educational theatre settings and will be of interest to those working in the areas of TESOL.

The course of study provides a planned and structured programme, which is sufficiently flexible to respond to the needs of a wide range of pedagogic and cultural contexts. Practical activities are at the heart of our course structure, so there will be a number of opportunities to work with your peers, collaborating, debating, and researching practical solutions. Your interdisciplinary skill set will be developed throughout the MA, enabling you to pursue a diverse array of career pathways.

Skills from this degree

• Theoretical understanding of how and why drama can support language learning with particular attention to issues relating to second language learning
• Awareness of the social dynamics of the classroom and their implications for the teaching-learning process
• Critical analysis and evaluation of current research in drama education and ELT
• Formulate a relevant research question and design a valid project to inquire into it
• Plan and execute successful drama workshops focusing on language development
• Ability to advocate the use of teaching of ELT