PRE-INTERNSHIP INDUCTION PROGRAMME #6 (Stage Connect)
Report on Drama Workshop – “Stage Connect”
Date: 8th July 2025
The one-day Drama Workshop titled “Stage Connect” was conducted at CICS College of Teacher Education, Mathara on 8th July 2025 as part of the Pre-Internship Induction Programme, in association with the Internal Quality Assurance Cell (IQAC). The session was led by Mr. A. S. Devendranath, a teacher, actor, and experienced theatre practitioner known for his contributions to stage and television.
The objective of the workshop was to enhance the performance skills of student teachers by exploring the parallels between teaching and theatre. The session emphasized that teachers are performers whose primary tools include their voice, body, and presence, and that teaching should be engaging, interactive, and expressive.
The session began with an insightful talk on the importance of classroom performance. Mr. Devendranath emphasized the importance of self-awareness, voice modulation, body language, and presence of mind in contributing to an effective teaching-learning process. He also underlined the importance of understanding the interests and learning styles of the new generation of students to make teaching more impactful.
Several interactive activities formed the core of the workshop. One such activity involved rearranging classroom chairs in an abstract layout, prompting participants to interpret the setting and assign new meanings. This exercise illustrated the concept of multiple valid perspectives. Another reflective exercise focused on mindful breathing, helping participants center themselves before entering a classroom. A silent movement challenge taught discipline, group accountability, and focus as participants attempted to move chairs without making noise.
Partner-based activities also played a significant role in the workshop. Exercises on eye contact and storytelling through body and voice were conducted to highlight the importance of connection and expression in the classroom.
One noteworthy activity required participants to maintain eye focus on a fixed point while resisting distractions, reinforcing the importance of mental stillness and classroom control.
The session concluded with an engaging discussion on classroom management strategies, building rapport, and maintaining student attention. Participants left with a renewed understanding of the teacher’s role as a reflective and engaging performer.
In conclusion, the Stage Connect drama workshop was an enriching and transformative experience. It encouraged student teachers to reflect on their teaching presence and inspired them to embrace performance as an integral part of effective pedagogy.