Assessing Teaching Facilities for Theatre Arts Education at the University of Education, Winneba, Ghana

Abstract

This paper explores the availability, utility, and maintenance of teaching facilities for Theatre Arts education at the University of Education, Winneba (UEW), Ghana. Over three academic years (2021-2023), a comprehensive assessment of key facilities, such as the School of Creative Arts (SCA) Theatre, mirror rooms, scenic design workshops, and other auxiliary spaces, was conducted. Data was collected through observations, interviews, and document analysis to evaluate the role of these facilities in enhancing student engagement, creativity, and skill development. The findings indicate significant improvements in educational infrastructure, which have positively impacted the quality of practical theatre education. However, the study also highlights critical challenges in the facility maintenance regime, which threaten the longevity and effectiveness of these spaces. The paper concludes that while progress has been made in providing essential facilities, sustainable management practices, including the appointment of a dedicated studio manager; an international best practice for such facilities, are necessary to preserve the educational value of these resources.

Keywords: Facility management, teaching facilities, theatre arts education, utilities, University of Education, Winneba

DOI: 10.7176/JEP/15-11-02

Publication date: October 30th 2024