SPARKING CRITICAL CONSCIOUSNESS AMONG COLLEGE STUDENTS: THE LINK BETWEEN ETHNODRAMA AND CRITICAL LITERACY

Abstract

College students in the United States are often bombarded with distressing news that can be difficult to process. Acts of violence and hatred directed towards marginalized communities are heard about and discussed every day. Some students feel the need to incite change - others do not. It is in the best interest of educators to acknowledge these challenges while simultaneously utilizing them to further the education of their students. This study investigates the connection between theatre and critical literacy among college students through the exploration of works related to social justice issues. Activating critical literacy skills in college students can inspire them to discuss personal experiences, find common ground, and develop new perspectives on societal issues. This study will examine how college students activate their critical literacy skills by analyzing existing theatrical works and creating original ethnodramas based on social identity issues.