Evaluating Outcomes of a Co-Produced Theatre-Based Experiential Learning Project in Psychiatry
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Authors
Walker, Thomas
Jones, Tomos
Grant-Peterkin, Hugh
Dave, Rupal
Röhricht, Frank
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Issue Date
05/09/2024
Type
Journal article
Language
Keywords
Mental Health
Alternative Title
Abstract
INTRODUCTION
The benefits of theatre and arts-based initiatives for enhancing the health and wellbeing of adults, regardless of mental health status, are well-documented. Theatre methodologies offer a platform for co-produced experiential learning, promoting perspective-taking and effective communication among staff and service users. This project aimed to bring together service users and mental health professionals through workshops conducted by an experiential theatre company, focusing on themes such as relationship dynamics, co-production, empowerment and perspective-taking. Notably, the sessions were conducted online due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
METHODS
The study sought to explore the experiences, learning outcomes and work-related wellbeing benefits of participating in this innovative project. Methods involved inviting East London Foundation Trust members to eight weekly online workshops, culminating in a co-created filmed performance. Interviews conducted 9 months to a year later with participants and facilitators were thematically analysed.
RESULTS
Results revealed four key themes: (1) personal and collective growth through storytelling and embodied acting experiences; (2) the importance of workshop structure for experiential learning; (3) challenging traditional role definitions through diminished hierarchy; and (4) sustained impacts on time management at work and in personal lives.
CONCLUSIONS
In conclusion, participants valued their involvement, indicating that theatre-based co-produced learning enhances communication and interpersonal skills in mental healthcare settings. These findings suggest the potential for integrating such approaches into healthcare education and training
Description
Citation
Journal of Medical Education and Curricular Development, 11. https://doi.org/10.1177/23821205241278175 (Original work published 2024)
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Journal
Journal of Medical Education and Curricular Development
Volume
11