Embodied Aesthetics in Drama Education by Matthew DeCoursey

Embodied Aesthetics in Drama Education offers an in depth, comprehensive analysis and consideration of different philosophies that influence and shape our views of drama education; its place within other subjects as a pedagogical tool; and as part of a holistic approach to education. The seven chapters focus on aesthetics and engage critically with the relationship between cognition and how the body connects action with perception. DeCoursey establishes the issue of identity as significant within future educational aims and argues that Drama could be beneficial to this development. Indeed, the current crisis in children's mental health supports his argument and the evidence he provides justifies Drama's place in the school curriculum.

DeCoursey clearly understands the value placed on evidence-based practice and throughout the book he critically engages with the fields of Psychology and Neuroscience. He establishes that emotional connection is central to cognition, not just a by-product of the ‘psychology of attention’. This is subsequently developed alongside literature from drama educationists Boal and Bolton, and is influenced by philosopher Ranciere's views on emancipation. This offers a philosophical analysis of drama education that focuses on both process and text-based drama and would support Drama curriculum leaders looking to integrate aspects of ‘Character Education’ within Ofsted's new inspection framework.

This book is not for the faint hearted, it is a complex read that relies on the reader having a thorough knowledge of the complexities of Drama education. It doesn't offer any practical ‘off the peg’ curriculum maps and it doesn't need to – the needs of every school will be different.

With the new Ofsted inspection framework arriving in September 2019, this is essential reading for Heads of Department. It will help them to review their curriculum and ensure they understand where and how they are supporting the acquisition and progression of drama knowledge. I have already added it to my reading list for PGCE Drama students.