Learning Outcomes
1. Core Knowledge: Students will demonstrate competency in the basic vocabulary, methods, and traditions of Theatre Education, Children’s Theatre, and Theatre for Young Audiences as a field of study in research and practice. Students will practice an understanding of age appropriate material in educational, recreational, and theatrical settings.
2. Methods/Styles: Students will develop familiarity with a wide range of methods, styles, and approaches for children and youth theatre making. Students will gain understanding of a variety of teaching methods and practices for creative drama and theatre making.
3. Production and Educational Experience: Students will work with a variety of educational, community, and non-profit organizations where students engage in observing and creating theatre with children and youth. Student will gain experience in directing and producing creative drama and theatre for young audiences. Students will write educational materials effectively for the field of TYA such as lesson plans, study guides and other educational support materials.
4. Communication Skills: Students will articulate an advocacy position regarding the role of the arts in the lives of young people and voice a philosophy of teaching theatre/drama with children and youth. Students will develop and gain familiarity with the values and state/national standards in the creation of theatre with and for young people.
Rationale:
To provide an opportunity for students to minor in Theatre for Young Audiences, with 12 credit hours required, and a menu of options for maximum flexibility in reaching the 18-21 hour minor requirement. Currently we have a K-12 Theatre education endorsement within the College of Education. This program would remain, but the Theatre for Young Audiences minor can provide the courses in the major without the College of Education requirements. We feel this will be a popular minor for students wishing to work with youth in educational or community settings.