Engaging Students – an introduction to improvisation skills for active learning and inclusive teaching (led by Bristol Improv Theatre)
Tue 11th February 2026, 1.30 pm – 3 pm
Victoria Rooms G27 Recital room
Join experienced performer/facilitators from Bristol Improv Theatre for an interactive Plenary workshop. We’ll introduce core concepts from improvisation through interactive activities designed to build connection and rapport in an active learning environment. This includes the improvisation concept of ‘happy fail’ and ‘leap and discover’ as tools for building bravery and resilience for teachers and learners.
➔ Resilience: In improvisation, we practice games where we celebrate or cheer when participants ‘get things wrong’. This can build resilience in learners because we embrace mistakes and see failure as an opportunity to grow.
➔ Creative Facilitation: Participants are more likely to engage with learning when they feel relaxed and confident with their peers. Creative icebreaker exercises & framing can accelerate connection and trust in the learning environment.
➔ Bravery: in improvisation we practice the tool of ‘leap & discover’ or ‘say or do the first thing’. This cultivates bravery because participants are encouraged to risk a ‘wrong’ answer.
➔ Authenticity: Authenticity accelerates connection and reliability. We use techniques in improvisation to practice being ourselves in front of audiences.
This is not a performance or performing workshop. Every activity will be an invitation and offered to do in pairs or small groups, including discussion and reflection.