Enroll Course: https://www.coursera.org/learn/richard-schechners-introduction-to-performance-studies
In the vast landscape of academic disciplines, few fields are as dynamic and multifaceted as Performance Studies. Coursera’s course, “Richard Schechner’s Introduction to Performance Studies,” offers an exceptional entry point into this intriguing world. Designed by Richard Schechner, a pioneer in the field, this course invites students to explore the myriad forms of performance that permeate our lives, from traditional theatre and dance to the subtleties of everyday interactions and social media.
### Course Overview
The course begins with a comprehensive introduction to what performance is and what Performance Studies entails. It covers a broad spectrum of actions, including play, rituals, political campaigns, and the performances we engage in daily. Schechner’s approach is both inclusive and expansive, drawing on examples from various cultures and historical periods, making it a truly global exploration of performance.
### Syllabus Highlights
The syllabus is rich with topics that delve into the essence of performance. Key lessons include:
– **Performance Processes**: Understanding how performances are generated, enacted, and evaluated.
– **Ritual and Play**: Exploring the foundational elements of performance that are rooted in both biological and cultural practices.
– **Performativity**: Analyzing how everyday actions can be viewed as performances, and how social roles are constructed and maintained.
– **Social Media**: Investigating the performative nature of online interactions and how they shape our identities.
– **Globalization and Culture**: Examining the impact of globalization on cultural performances and the emergence of a global uniculture.
### Learning Experience
One of the standout features of this course is its interactive nature. Students are encouraged to engage with the material actively, participating in discussions and projects that allow them to apply what they learn. The course is designed to be a living organism, evolving with the contributions of its participants. This approach not only enhances understanding but also fosters a sense of community among learners.
### Final Thoughts
“Richard Schechner’s Introduction to Performance Studies” is more than just a course; it is an invitation to rethink how we perceive and engage with the world around us. Whether you are a student of the arts, a social scientist, or simply someone curious about the dynamics of human interaction, this course offers valuable insights that will enrich your understanding of performance in all its forms.
I highly recommend this course to anyone interested in exploring the complexities of performance and its relevance in contemporary society. It is a journey that promises to be enlightening and transformative, encouraging you to see the world as a stage where every action is a performance.
### Tags
– Performance Studies
– Richard Schechner
– Theatre
– Dance
– Social Media
– Cultural Studies
– Ritual
– Play
– Globalization
– Online Learning
### Topic
Performance Studies
Enroll Course: https://www.coursera.org/learn/richard-schechners-introduction-to-performance-studies