From Stage to Science: Neurodrama Education Research with Sirke Seppänen, PhD

Have you ever wondered how the thrill and terror of stage fright can transform into a powerful educational tool? How can the adrenaline of an improvised performance be harnessed to entertain and enhance interpersonal skills in real-world situations?

Welcome to a fascinating exploration at the intersection of performing arts and neuroscience/psychophysiology with Dr. Sirke Seppänen, a drama teacher and an innovative Neurodrama researcher. With over two decades of experience in the performing arts, Sirke brings a unique perspective to education and social interaction through her work.

Dr. Seppänen's journey in the world of drama education began after she completed her MA at the University of Helsinki and further advanced her studies at Jyväskylä Open University. Sirke then earned her Vocational Teacher's Pedagogical Qualification at Haaga-Helia University of Applied Sciences. Her research, especially her involvement with the Cicero Learning Network's Neurodrama project, seeks to merge the art of drama with the science of the brain. This groundbreaking work investigates the psychophysiology of social interactions and the potential of drama interventions in mitigating social stress.

In this episode, Dr. Seppänen will explore how applied improvisation can be crucial in education. This method fosters student teachers' interpersonal competence in a psychologically safe environment. Also, this method allows individuals to navigate and practice teaching-related scenarios through fictional yet impactful experiences that promote experiential learning.

Tune in as we uncover how Sirke Seppänen uses her interdisciplinary approach to provide a holistic understanding of learning processes, combining subjective experiences with objective data to enhance educational practices. Whether you're a drama enthusiast, an educator, fascinated by the power of performing arts to influence and teach, or simply have a stage fright, this discussion promises to enlighten and inspire!

About the Podcast Guest:

Sirke Seppänen (PhD) is a drama teacher with over 20 years of expertise in the performing arts. After graduating from the University of Helsinki (MA), Sirke finished her drama education studies (Jyväskylä Open University) and earned her Vocational Teacher's Pedagogical Qualification (Haaga-Helia University of Applied Sciences). As a drama teacher, her interests lie in experiential learning and the biosignals of social interactions. Her Neurodrama research project (Cicero Learning Network) introduces a novel angle to drama education research through our constantly reshaping, learning, and highly social brain. Specifically, she investigates the psychophysiology of social interactions and the effects of drama intervention in relieving social stress. Her cross-disciplinary approach aims to achieve a holistic understanding of experiential learning by combining subjective and objective data.

Connect with Sirke Seppänen, PhD and learn more about the work she is doing :

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sirkeseppanen/

email: [email protected], [email protected]

The link to Sirke's latest scientific paper, which summarises the findings of four of her studies:

https://njdrama.scholasticahq.com/article/84495-improvisation-in-the-brain-and-body-a-theoretical-and-embodied-perspective-on-applied-improvisation

[A note: A photo used in the podcast episode cover art was adopted and modified from the original made by photographer Mira Kallomaki]

About the Podcast Host:

The Neurocareers podcast is brought to you by The Institute of Neuroapproaches (https://www.neuroapproaches.org/) and its founder, Milena Korostenskaja, Ph.D. (Dr. K), a neuroscience educator, research consultant, and career coach for people in neuroscience and neurotechnologies. As a professional coach with a background in the field, Dr. K understands the unique challenges and opportunities job applicants face in this field and can provide personalized coaching and support to help you succeed.

Here's what you'll get with one-on-one coaching sessions from Dr. K:

• Identification and pursuit of career goals
• Guidance on job search strategies, resume and cover letter development, and interview preparation
• Networking strategies to connect with professionals in the field of neuroscience and neurotechnologies
• Ongoing support and guidance to help you stay on track and achieve your goals

You can always schedule a free neurocareer consultation/coaching session with Dr. K at https://neuroapproaches.as.me/free-neurocareer-consultation

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