UNIVERSITY OF KENT
MODULE SPECIFICATION TEMPLATE
SECTION 1: MODULE SPECIFICATION
1.
Title of the module
DR610 Performing Lives: Theory & Practice of Autobiographical Theatre
2.
School or partner institution which will be responsible for management of the module
School of Arts
3.
Start date of the module
2002. Revised in 2008 and September 2014
4.
The number of students expected to take the module
32
5.
Modules to be withdrawn on the introduction of this proposed module and consultation with other
relevant Schools and Faculties regarding the withdrawal
N/A
6.
The level of the module
Honours [H]
7.
The number of credits and the ECTS value which the module represents
30 credits (15 ECTS)
8.
Which term(s) the module is to be taught in (or other teaching pattern)
Autumn or Spring
9.
Prerequisite and co-requisite modules
None
10. The programmes of study to which the module contributes
BA Drama & Theatre (SH & JH), BA VPA
11. The intended subject specific learning outcomes
On completion of the module students will be able to:
11.1. Demonstrate a systematic understanding of the ethics of working with personal material
11.2. Apply the methods, techniques, and theories studied to create critically-engaged auto/biographical
performances
11.3. Critically evaluate arguments, approaches, and methodologies relating to auto/biographical
performance,
11.4. Show a conceptual understanding of the relations between autobiographical theories and
performance practice
12. The intended generic learning outcomes. On completion students will be able to:
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UNIVERSITY OF KENT
12.1. Communicate information, ideas, problems, and solutions articulately, in debate and discussion;
in writing; and in performance
12.2. Engage in critically-reflective practice-based research
12.3. Work effectively both individually and as a group
13. A synopsis of the curriculum
This module explores critical and creative approaches to working with real lives in performance. You
will examine how auto/biographical material is used and manipulated to construct identity in and
through performance. You will question the concept of the 'true story' and explore the ethics and
practicalities of using the personal in performance. You will also work creatively to produce a
practical project on auto/biographical theatre. In this module you will work with a range of dramatic
material and forms, studying, for example, play texts, performance art, verbatim and documentary
theatre. You will also engage with a range of theoretical approaches and perspectives.
14. Indicative Reading List
Canton, U (2011), Biographical Theatre. Palgrave Macmillan: Basingstoke
Corrie, R. (2005) My Name is Rachel Corrie. Nick Hern Books: London
Donnell, A & Polkey, P (eds). (2000) Representing Lives. Palgrave Macmillan:
Basingstoke
Haedicke, Heddon et al (eds) (2009) Political Performances. Palgrave Macmillan:
Basingstoke
Heddon, D (2007) Autobiography in Performance: Performing Selves. Palgrave
Macmillan: Basingstoke
Hammond W & Steward D. (2008) Verbatim Verbatim: Techniques in Contemporary
Documentary Theatre. Oberon Books: London
15. Learning and Teaching Methods, including the nature and number of contact hours and the total
study hours which will be expected of students, and how these relate to achievement of the intended
module learning outcomes
Weekly contact hours: 1 x 1 hour lecture, 1 x 3 hour self-directed practical session, 1 x 3 hour
workshop = 7 hours per week x 12 weeks = 84 hours. This addresses learning outcomes: 11.1-4 and
12.1-4
Independent study hours: 216 hours. This addresses learning outcomes: 11.1-2, 12.1, 2,4
Total learning hours: 300 hours.
16. Assessment methods and how these relate to testing achievement of the intended module learning
outcomes
100% Coursework
 Essay exploring the topic of auto/biographical theatre
o 40% (3500 words) This addresses learning outcomes: 11.2-4, 12.1-3
 Performance Project on auto/biographical theatre
o 40% (Group mark with potential for individual inflection based on log-books. 20
minute or equivalent, double-marked) This addresses learning outcomes: 11.1-4,
12.1-4
 Presentation on auto/biographical theatre
o 20% (Group mark with potential for individual inflection based on log-books. 35
minutes) This addresses learning outcomes: 11.2-4, 12.1-3
17. Implications for learning resources, including staff, library, IT and space
None
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UNIVERSITY OF KENT
18. The School recognises and has embedded the expectations of current disability equality legislation,
and supports students with a declared disability or special educational need in its teaching. Within
this module we will make reasonable adjustments wherever necessary, including additional or
substitute materials, teaching modes or assessment methods for students who have declared and
discussed their learning support needs. Arrangements for students with declared disabilities will be
made on an individual basis, in consultation with the University’s disability/dyslexia support service,
and specialist support will be provided where needed.
19. Campus(es) where module will be delivered:
Canterbury
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UNIVERSITY OF KENT
SECTION 2: MODULE IS PART OF A PROGRAMME OF STUDY IN A UNIVERSITY SCHOOL
Statement by the School Director of Learning and Teaching/School Director of Graduate Studies
(as appropriate): "I confirm I have been consulted on the above module proposal and have given advice
on the correct procedures and required content of module proposals"
................................................................
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Director of Learning and Teaching/Director of
Graduate Studies (delete as applicable)
Date
…………………………………………………
Print Name
Statement by the Head of School: "I confirm that the School has approved the introduction of the
module and, where the module is proposed by School staff, will be responsible for its resourcing"
.................................................................
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Head of School
Date
…………………………………………………….
Print Name
SECTION 3: MODULE IS PART OF A PROGRAMME IN A PARTNER COLLEGE OR VALIDATED
INSTITUTION
(Where the module is proposed by a Partner College/Validated Institution)
Statement by the Nominated Officer of the College/Validated Institution (delete as applicable): "I
confirm that the College/Validated Institution (delete as applicable) has approved the introduction of the
module and will be responsible for its resourcing"
.................................................................
..............................................
Nominated Responsible Officer of Partner
College/Validated Institution
Date
………………………………………………….
Print Name
…………………………………………………..
Post
………………………………………….
Partner College/Validated Institution
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