Digital drama : toolkits, dilemmas, and preferences

Artists and educators who work with young people are often under pressure to consider ways to embrace the use of digital technologies in their practice and classrooms. Drama educators are faced with a number of opportunities and dilemmas as they move to adopt a greater technology focus. This article will outline some findings from international research about young people and information and communications technology (ICT) use and specific considerations for creating drama using digital media and online spaces. It also outlines an example of a school-based cyberdrama project entitled The Immortals. The specific toolkits students required for engaging in digital drama are identified, with a number of different ICT skill sets becoming apparent, as well as drama-specific knowledge, social and relational skills, and reflective practice. Student responses are analyzed and different preferences for creative practice are reflected upon.