Time Schedule:
Robert Joseph Turner
BIS 322
Bothell Campus
Examination of a specific topic in order to provide a deeper understanding of a particular aspect of the study of performance. Topics may include transnationalism and performance; eco-performance, community performance; African and Asian theatre. Topics and approaches may vary with instructor.
Class description
The subtitle of this course is Science in the Spotlight. In this course we will explore the possibilities of combining science and the performance arts. How can performance pieces shed light on the culture of science and society's awkward relationship with the science perspective? How can performance enhance the communication of science findings, concerns, and methods? How entertaining and emotive can science education be and still be taken seriously? Is an overt teaching agenda antithetical to the production of art? How do we evaluate the benefits of melding science and performance arts? In this course we are trying nothing less than to jump start a whole new field of academic and performance endeavor. Students can expect to learn about the process of creativity, the philosophical underpinnings of science and performance art, and the opportunities for enhancing science education through interdisciplinarity.
Student learning goals
General method of instruction
This course will be highly collaborative, with minimal lecturing by the instructor. Much of the learning will take place via readings, discussions, group work, and, of course, the production of performance art pieces.
Recommended preparation
Leave your shyness at the door! Be interested in undressing science concerns in the performance art context.
Class assignments and grading
Student work will consist of readings, 2 reflective essays, and the generation of original performance pieces. As a class we will compare the effectiveness between typical science lecturing and performance pieces that cover the same content and issues. Students will work in groups to define the science content and develop these lectures and performance pieces. Each student will also produce their own script of a short performance piece that wrestles with some science issue or theme.
Grades will be based on the following evaluation mechanisms: Participation (10%), essays (20%), group projects (35%), individual effort in performance pieces and lectures (35%).
