Faculty-led Inquiry into Reflective and Scholarly Teaching (FIRST)
Date of this Version
2020
Document Type
Portfolio
Citation
Pollard, Ann Marie. "Toward a Culturally Sensitive Approach to Student Centered Accent and Dialect Coursework - THEA 403: Advanced Voice - Accents & Dialects" (2020). UNL Faculty Portfolios, 152. https://digitalcommons.unl.edu/prtunl/152/
Abstract
A benchmark portfolio for Theatre 403: Advanced Voice (Accents and Dialects). This portfolio describes considerations taken in developing a new course design, optimizing course assignments, implementing a perspective which moves toward the decolonization of the acting classroom, and integrating heightened awareness of cultural sensitivity with practical, skills-based learning. The author provides context around the course, its objectives, and its structure. Samples of student perspectives are provided within an in-depth look at an in-class conversation about diversity, inclusion, and practicing advocacy for appropriate casting choices. The reflection includes a conclusion that, while moving toward a destandardization of content has its challenges, the benefits of increasing exposure to conversations about representation are paramount to both industry change and a detangling of standardized expectations in the classroom.