Learner Construction of Knowledge: Using Stagestruck to Develop a Performance

Learner construction of their understanding is one of the basic tenets of a constructivist framework of learning. Technology-supported learning environments have been developed to support construction and allow students to employ resources to express their ideas and arguments. A new product, StageStruck, has been developed to extend the process of knowledge construction to knowledge domains in which there are multiple solutions and world views of any one task; the construction of multiple meanings that many would argue are highly subjective and open to numerous interpretations. StageStruck introduces the learner to the world of Australian performing arts by exploring a virtual venue (the Sydney Opera House) which in turn provides access to showcases of contemporary companies’ performances, processes and people. In addition, this environment for experimentation supports users to produce performances using a range of director’s ‘tools’. The package brings together several key pedagogical goals: including the designers’ emphasis on learning, which occurs through the process of interactive multimedia construction. Less emphasis is placed on the refinement of production skills and more emphasis is placed on student-initiated design and development with just-in-time skill support. When the focus is upon the process, the cognitive load required to use the construction tool(s) has been minimised in order to permit the learner to focus on knowledge construction through experimentation. 1. PROVIDING OPPORTUNITIES FOR PERSONAL INTERPRETATION Many students have a narrow perception of how a theatrical performance is devised, this is often due to lack of exposure to or opportunity to view or participate in multiple skills required to create a theatrical performance. By extending the boundaries of interactivity in the context of a virtual world, StageStruck seeks to provide learners with opportunities to express their own cultural interpretations and understandings. The package introduces the user to the world of Australian performing arts through the exploration of a virtual theatre. The project sought to: • reveal the diversity and range of the performing arts in Australia; • inspire learners with excerpts of Australian productions; • encourage participation in the performing arts; • discover theatrical creativity through the creation of a scene; • explore and learn about backstage elements and processes; and • explore some of the roles and career paths available in the performing arts.