A Dramatic Approach to Equalities

Equality Works has always used a range of training techniques and approaches to ensure that our training programmes are delivered in interesting and challenging ways to delegates. In order to build on this good practice approach, our Training and Consulting Manager, Helen Webb, has been working with Jelena Budimir, an Associate Director of Chickenshed Theatre Company to review current course delivery and to design new approaches to using drama within courses. Jelena has wide and varied experience of working in both theatre and education within an inclusive setting. 

Following this review, there have been a number of areas where changes have been made to existing materials, and where new approaches to learning are being developed. 

Helen said:

“Jelena and I were keen to inject a different energy into existing material which we knew worked well and produced great learning outcomes for delegates. However, we wanted to try and introduce some new ideas. As a starting point we identified the breaking down of inhibitions and the energizing of delegates as key. In addition, we thought about how to provide opportunity on all our courses for a more experiential learning approach so as to stimulate delegates’ thinking and development. For example, we recognize that understanding definitions of words like equality, diversity and discrimination are fundamental. So we have devised exercises where groups of delegates produce a physical representation of some of those vital terms. When we piloted this exercise delegates found the approach challenging. But the feedback suggested it gave them a perspective of real value, and made them think more deeply about what equality and diversity meant to them in their roles. 

"In the forefront of our minds was also a desire to ensure greater accessibility for delegates within the training process. So we have considered how to deliver our materials without the use of written training aids, and by using audio and visual approaches.” 

Helen went on to say:

“A new element that we are keen to introduce into our courses when appropriate, is the use of drama and forum theatre to explore workplace discrimination situations in greater depth. Equality Works has used actors previously in training, but Jelena and I have spent a lot of time thinking about how we can develop this. We know from feedback from clients that delegates find issues like challenging prejudice or harassment in the workplace really tough. The exercises we are developing using actors will allow delegates to explore practical solutions to dealing with some of these difficult scenarios in a non-threatening and supportive environment. These will engage all participants in working collectively to find solutions. Obviously we will ensure that materials suit the clients’ needs and requirements. 

"We aim to introduce some of these new ideas over the coming months, although some approaches are still in development.  

“It has been really interesting and exciting to revisit training materials and approaches with the fresh perspective of drama. We are confident that the work we have undertaken will have a really positive impact on future courses at Equality Works.”

Equality Works has always used a range of training techniques and approaches to ensure that our training programmes are delivered in interesting and challenging ways to delegates. In order to build on this good practice approach, our Training and Consulting Manager, Helen Webb, has been working with Jelena Budimir, an Associate Director of Chickenshed Theatre Company to review current course delivery and to design new approaches to using drama within courses. Jelena has wide and varied experience of working in both theatre and education within an inclusive setting.