Birds trying to fly: education and neoliberalism vs. theatrical improvisation

Abstract

Neoliberalism is currently the leading ideology and stablishes a personal and social model that rewards the individual and similar, while punishes the collective and different. Spanish education tends towards a neoliberal approach. What would happen if an intervention program based on contrary values is implemented? An intervention program based on theatrical improvisation was implemented during three months in a Spanish secondary school. 78 students (12.76 ± 0.8 years) participated in the study. From a qualitative approach, information was collected through 29 interviews, four discussion groups, 80 open questions, three external observer journals, and a teacher's diary. The predominance of five thematic categories was observed: methodology, socialize, creative process, expression and benefits. This study shows the importance of effective places of socialization, free expression and creativity in the education system, to counteract its current trend towards neoliberal ideas.