The potential of process-centred drama in activating the new curriculum reform in the post-2000 basic education system in China

PhD thesis


Su, R. 2024. The potential of process-centred drama in activating the new curriculum reform in the post-2000 basic education system in China. PhD thesis Middlesex University Performing Arts
TypePhD thesis
TitleThe potential of process-centred drama in activating the new curriculum reform in the post-2000 basic education system in China
AuthorsSu, R.
Abstract

This thesis explores the potential of process-centred drama (PCD) for achieving the standards of the New Curriculum Reform (NCR) in mainland China. In order to fulfil the objectives of cultivating (Yuren, 育人) and the all-round development (Quanmian Fahzhan, 全面发展) of learners, the NCR advocates a new teaching model which is strongly relevant to pupils’ life with a ‘participatory, actively-involved, enquiry-based and task-based’ approach. In this thesis, the benefits and profound significance of PCD as an innovative teaching strategy for filling the gap in existing pedagogic practices in the educational context of mainland China is investigated. This study makes use of mixed research methods and includes semi-structured interviews with Chinese educators, UK-based specialists and experienced facilitators, as well as case studies in UK-based theatre-in-education (TiE) and workshop observations. The two case studies with Big Brum and Freshwater focus on the existing practice of PCD in educational settings, facilitation skills and the response of learners through the engagement of PCD activities. In addition, this research investigates these practices from the perspective of Chinese educational ideas such as Yuren and all-round development, as well as Confucius’s ideas of reflective learning (Xue Er Bu Si Ze Wang, 学而不思则罔) and enjoying learning (Xue Er Bu Yan, 学而不厌). The thesis also offers a recommendation outlining a possible direction for the future growth of PCD in mainland China.

KeywordsDrama education; New Curriculum Reform; process-centred drama
Sustainable Development Goals4 Quality education
Middlesex University ThemeCreativity, Culture & Enterprise
Department namePerforming Arts
Arts and Creative Industries
Institution nameMiddlesex University
PublisherMiddlesex University Research Repository
Publication dates
Online20 Nov 2024
Publication process dates
Accepted01 Feb 2024
Deposited20 Nov 2024
Output statusPublished
Accepted author manuscript
File Access Level
Open
LanguageEnglish
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RSu thesis.pdf
File access level: Open

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