Arts education in Ireland: Visions of a performative teaching, learning and research culture

Erika  Piazzoli; Manfred Schewe

doi:10.26034/vd.jrea.2023.3586

Authors

Erika Piazzoli Trinity College Dublin
Manfred Schewe University College Cork

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.26034/vd.jrea.2023.3586

Keywords:

Arts in education, performative langage teaching, learning, aesthetic experience, Scenario Journal

Abstract

In this paper we offer an overview of the arts in education in Ireland, making a case for a performative approach. We discuss theory, research and practice – situating the developments in Ireland within a multicultural context. We begin by offering our own definition of Arts (in) Education research, drawing on seminal policies and interrogating various art classifications, from a historical and etymological perspective. Next, we consider their impact at a global and regional level and we examine how policy has influenced the curriculum. Following this, we reflect on the ramifications of theatre and drama in education, highlighting the fragmentation in the field. In the main argument of the paper, we make a case for performative education, illustrating our vision for performative language teaching and research. We suggest that theory of aesthetic experience can be a useful framework, and close with remarks on our contemporary society.

Author Biographies

Erika Piazzoli, Trinity College Dublin

Assistant Professor in Arts Education, practitioner and researcher at Trinity College Dublin, School of Education. Currently she teaches drama in education and language education within the Master in Education (M.Ed.) programme, and Arts Education within the Professional Master of Education programme. Her research interest explores embodiment in performative language teaching and learning and performative practice with refugees, asylum seekers and migrants.

Manfred Schewe, University College Cork

Professor Emeritus at University College Cork (Ireland), where he served as Head of the Department of German and also as Head of the Theatre Department. His teaching and interdisciplinary research activities focus on Applied Theatre, especially on performative approaches to language, literature and culture. As guest lecturer and workshop facilitator for associations and institutions worldwide, he continues to be a strong advocate of a performative teaching, learning and research culture.