The theory and practice of applied improv—taking improvisation techniques off stage and into other settings—is increasingly applied to business, education, and other settings. Improv training can promote and build capacity for collaboration, communication, and creativity. In this course, we will learn the basic ideas of improv and how to apply them to communication and collaboration in the classroom and beyond. Using the “yes, and” foundation of improv theater, along with elements of storytelling, participants will develop listening skills, confidence in public speaking, agility in offering explanations, and tools for building a more student-based classroom. 

This class will meet in person. Because of the nature of the course and the need to build a dependable learning community, students should not enroll if they know in advance their schedules will require them to miss more than two class meetings. The majority of the work of the course will happen in our weekly meetings, as we learn improv exercises and build on skills developed in previous weeks.  Course requirements will include reflective writing and leading an improv exercise in class.