Based
on the idea that the arts are an integral part of education,
the Workshop's Professional
Development Program works with teachers to use the creative
process to bring curriculum to life. Developed by Founder
Gloria Unti, the Workshop's methodology demonstrates
practical techniques to engage young people and shows
teachers how to place a student "on stage" as
thinker, creator, and performer. Strategies outlined
in the workshops include how to improve students' concentration
and communication skills, as well as how to work with
special student populations such as immigrant/newcomer
students, learning disabled students, and preschoolers.
All workshops are site-based, unless contracted otherwise. Workshop length varies and can be negotiated. The standard rate is $250 per hour.
SAMPLE WORKSHOP TOPICS
The Workshop Methodology:
Teaching Creativity and Critical Thinking in Public Schools
An overview of the Performing Arts Workshop's process-oriented approach to
arts education. Breaks down the creative process into perception, conception,
expression, reflection, and re-vision. Discover how dance, theatre arts, creative
writing, and music activities develop young people's cognitive, social, and
motor skills.
Planning and Teaching an Integrated Arts/Academic Curriculum
Stresses the importance of the arts as a vehicle/tool in learning core academic
subject standards, while allowing for individual expression, creativity,
critical thinking, and reflection. Underlines how the arts reinforce
the teaching of cooperation, active listening, and student skills such as
following directions and receiving critique.
The Creative Process & Language
Development for English Learners
Reinforces vocabulary through creative movement and drama exercises. Builds
basic comprehension as well as physical and verbal expression.
Learning Disabled Students & the
Creative Process
Outlines model exercises for developing motor skills, body awareness, self-esteem,
and socialization for special needs students. Based on the Performing Arts
Workshop's work with the San Francisco Department of Mental Health.
The Creative Process for Preschoolers
Topics include use of imagery, movement, music, ritualizing class structure,
use of props, early language development techniques, and problem-solving
exercises for preschoolers.
Site-Designed Workshop
Tailored to meet the needs of individual schools or community centers and specific curriculum.
The Arts, Education, and Social Justice
Explores the role of Augusto Boal's Theatre of the Oppressed in the public
school classroom. Examines the relationship between Theatre of the Oppressed
and language acquisition as well as issues of student assessment and sustainability
of the arts in public schools.
For more information on the Professional Development Program, please contact our Program Director, Jessica Mele, jessica@performingartsworkshop.org, (415) 673-2634 x201.
