IMPR PhD Pedagogy Lab

Before undertaking the Qualifying Exam (QE), students complete the Pedagogy Lab. This credit-bearing component is designed to:

• Establish a secondary “teachable” area beyond Critical Studies in Improvisation, strengthening disciplinary breadth.
• Enhance readiness for academic careers within a diverse teaching and learning environment.

The secondary field, approved by the Advisory Committee, may be a traditional discipline or an emerging area of study. Through the Pedagogy Lab, students:

• Develop reading lists and syllabus outlines for an undergraduate course in their secondary specialization.
• Present these materials at the program research colloquium and revise them based on feedback from the advisory committee.

The Pedagogy Lab embraces multiple disciplinary approaches, reflecting the improvisational ethos of the program. By its conclusion, students produce:

• Two course syllabi (senior undergraduate and graduate) aligned with their secondary area.
• Reading lists that contextualize this area within Critical Studies in Improvisation.
• A clear rationale for the course design and its interdisciplinary relevance.

The Graduate Program Coordinator, Pedagogy Lab instructor, and Advisory Committee members collaborate to identify suitable disciplinary engagements. This process ensures that students:

• Demonstrate teaching and research competence in their secondary field.
• Formulate innovative course outlines, learning outcomes, and assessment methods.
• Participate in a final presentation and critical review session with faculty and peers, receiving constructive feedback to refine their approach.

Note: Upon successful completion of the Pedagogy Lab, PhD students are considered prepared to begin their Qualifying Exam process.