APG4421 - Dramatic theory, criticism and research methods - 2019

This class grounds and equips students for future performance study, practice and critique by locating principal touchstones in the history of world theatre. Study of seminal historical and theoretical innovations ranging, for instance, from Aristotle to feminist, postcolonial and queer theorists engages students in investigation of theatre chronology, while situating events in the context of geography, genre and text. The class additionally encompasses key aspects of research methodology, performance as research, and methods germane to performance and arts study.

1. Understanding and integration of major concepts within dramatic theory, history and literature
2. Appreciation of the qualitative and critical significance of key thinkers within the discipline of theatre and performance studies
3. Critical tools to interpret and engage with complex ideas about theatre criticism, theory and performance-making
4. Awareness of diverse research methods and methodology appropriate to arts research, and experience in their practical application
5. Development of research and writing skills

Within semester assessment: 100%

Minimum total expected workload to achieve the learning outcomes for this unit is 288 hours per semester typically comprising a mixture of scheduled learning activities and independent study. A unit requires on average three/four hours of scheduled activities per week. Scheduled activities may include a combination of teacher directed learning, peer directed learning and online engagement.

See also Unit timetable information

Theatre and performance