Theater as a Motivational Strategy in the Teaching of History at the Basic Education Level

Abstract

This article proposes the use of theater as an effectively motivating strategy in the teaching and learning of History. Pedagogical theater is highlighted as a methodological option where the actor interprets, experiences, and predicts the past. It allows students to relive the past by providing learning situations through various activities. One of the benefits is helping students develop essential characteristics for their growth as critical and autonomous individuals. Villanueva (1991) defines theater as a motivational strategy: "An explicit and systematic way to promote motivation and learning in the classroom through the use of theatrical techniques." According to the author, there are numerous advantages, such as emotional well-being, security, and self-confidence. The benefits in terms of perseverance in tasks, memory, and expressive ability are also evident, which overall enhance the student's holistic formation. Furthermore, several researchers believe that theater is useful for explaining various concepts, making it an effective way to provide feedback, reinterpret, and improve the understanding of the subject matter.