Abstract
This interactive workshop explores how improvisation fosters democratic communication by balancing individual expression with group collaboration. Building on last year’s successful session, this presentation introduces a deeper exploration of the history and theory of improvisation and its connections to key communication theories. Participants will engage in hands-on improv exercises designed to highlight how group dynamics shape communication, emphasizing fairness, equity, and active listening. By examining the ways improv encourages inclusive dialogue where no single voice dominates, this session offers practical strategies for fostering collaborative learning environments in the classroom. This workshop aligns with the Scholarship of Teaching and Learning (SoTL) by demonstrating how improv techniques can improve student engagement, communication skills, and critical thinking—essential tools in today’s rapidly evolving, media-rich educational landscape. Attendees will leave with a toolkit of adaptable improv activities that enhance both individual confidence and group cohesion, supporting more equitable and participatory classroom communication.
Presenters
Matthew TerrellAssistant Professor of Media and Entertainment, School of Communication and Media, Kennesaw State University, Georgia, United States
Details
Presentation Type
Theme
2025 Special Focus—From Democratic Aesthetics to Digital Culture
KEYWORDS
Democratic Communication, Improvisation, Group Dynamics, Communication Theory, Media Education, Collaboration
