The Department of Drama and Creative Applications at National University of Tainan (NUTN) is dedicated to integrating theatrical creation, performance practice, and educational applications to cultivate professionals with both artistic expertise and teaching competencies. On May 25 and 26, 2026, the department implemented the Ministry of Education's University Social Responsibility (USR) project, "Integrating Drama Education into Flexible Learning Programs for Secondary Schools," at the NUTN Affiliated School for the Hearing Impaired and Tainan Municipal Chungshan Junior High School.
Led by Professor Hsi-Ju Chen, pre-service teachers from both elementary and secondary education programs collaborated with partner school teachers to design and deliver a series of drama-based learning activities. Through theatrical productions, campus performances, and drama education workshops, the project brought the arts directly into the classroom while providing pre-service teachers with valuable hands-on teaching experience in authentic educational settings.
The performances featured two original productions: the mime The Ugly Duckling and the sound theatre piece The Sound Clock, adapted from the work of Taiwanese poet Chen Li. The Ugly Duckling, inspired by Hans Christian Andersen's classic tale, reinterpreted the story from a contemporary perspective. In this adaptation, the duckling possesses unique abilities and, despite appearing different from others, demonstrates courage and empathy by helping friends overcome challenges. Through dramatic scenarios and character interactions, the performance encouraged students to reflect on diversity, acceptance, and self-worth, emphasizing that every individual is unique and deserves understanding and respect.
The second production, The Sound Clock, used sound as its primary narrative medium. Through sound effects, rhythms, and vocal performances, the piece recreated vivid scenes from everyday life, inviting students to rediscover the often-overlooked sounds, memories, and emotions embedded in their surroundings. Combining sound performance with interactive experiences, the production encouraged students to listen, observe, and participate creatively while exploring the diverse forms of sound art and reconnecting with the cultural memories and human stories of daily life.
With the support of teachers Wei-Min Chou from National Tainan Girls' Senior High School and Chieh-Yuan Huang from Chungshan Junior High School, more than ten NUTN pre-service teachers from the Department of Drama and Creative Applications entered local schools to facilitate drama education activities and interactive performances. From lesson planning and instructional guidance to classroom facilitation, the participants strengthened their teaching competencies and classroom management skills while learning how to employ drama-based methods to inspire students' thinking and self-expression.
Students participating in the activities responded enthusiastically. Beyond increasing their interest in the arts, the experience also fostered collaboration, communication, and empathy through creative engagement with theatre.
The Department of Drama and Creative Applications at NUTN is distinguished by its emphasis on theatrical creation, performing arts, educational applications, and social engagement. Its curriculum balances theory and practice, encouraging students to apply their theatrical expertise in education, culture, and community service. This project exemplifies the diverse possibilities of integrating drama education into school curricula and highlights the department's achievements in combining artistic creation, educational practice, and social responsibility to cultivate future educators and arts practitioners.