The Future of Education

Online education is growing in popularity and demand, yet there is not an undergraduate online theatre degree program. I argue that online theatre degrees should parallel traditional theatre degrees in higher education to spread advocacy for theatre, educate atypical students, and stay competitive with other online degree programs. The success of any discipline relies on the ability to advocate and educate future generations. Every year more students are choosing to pursue an online education over a traditional education. Online programs do not attract the same “type” of students as traditional programs. Online students differ from traditional students for many reasons. Most notably, successful online students must already possess autonomous skills and self-advocate. The specific students interested in online education include, adult learners, distance learners, and bargain learners. Education is continuing to make strides toward electronic learning. If theatre does not join these efforts, then their reluctance could lead to extinction in the academic world. Given the opportunity, most students would undoubtedly choose a face-to-face theatre education over an online theatre education. My argument is stating that many students do not have the choice to attend a face-to-face program, so the educational theatre community should provide online alternatives. Online theatre education degrees are often seen as a step backwards, but embracing the online education platform will immerse theatre in the twenty-first century and provide the pathway for the newest generation of theatre artists.

Keywords: Online Theatre Education, Experiential Learning, Diverse Learners, Theatre Advocacy;