# Richard Schechner's Introduction to Performanc… Review (2026) — 7.6/10 > Independent review of Richard Schechner's Introduction to Performance Studies Course on Coursera. Rated 7.6/10 by our editorial team. Pros, cons, price, and… Education & Teacher Training Courses Richard Schechner's Introduction to Performance Studies Course ![Richard Schechner's Introduction to Performance Studies Course](/api/media/file/hero/richard-schechners-introduction-to-performance-studies-course.webp?v=2?width=800) # Richard Schechner's Introduction to Performance Studies Course — Review (7.6/10) This course offers a broad, intellectually rich introduction to performance studies, guided by one of its pioneers. While light on practical application, it excels in conceptual depth and cultural ran... Explore This Course 🎟️ Coursera Discount Offer Explore This Course Richard Schechner's Introduction to Performance Studies Course is a 10 weeks online beginner-level course on Coursera by New York University that covers education & teacher training. This course offers a broad, intellectually rich introduction to performance studies, guided by one of its pioneers. While light on practical application, it excels in conceptual depth and cultural range. Ideal for humanities students and curious learners, though may feel abstract for those seeking hands-on skills. We rate it 7.6/10. ## Prerequisites No prior experience required. This course is designed for complete beginners in education & teacher training. ## Pros - Taught by Richard Schechner, a foundational scholar in performance studies, offering rare access to a pioneer’s perspective - Covers a remarkably wide range of performance forms across cultures and historical periods - Encourages critical thinking about everyday life as performance, deepening cultural awareness - Well-structured modules that build from basic concepts to complex theoretical applications ## Cons - Limited practical exercises or opportunities for creative application - Some topics feel broad or superficial due to the course’s wide scope - Lack of peer interaction or instructor feedback in self-paced format ## Richard Schechner's Introduction to Performance Studies Course Review Platform: Coursera Instructor: New York University Updated May 6, 2026·Editorial Standards·How We Rate ## What will you learn in Richard Schechner's Introduction to Performance Studies course - Understand the foundational concepts and scope of performance studies as an interdisciplinary field - Analyze diverse forms of performance including theatre, ritual, political actions, and digital media - Explore how performance functions in everyday life and across global cultures - Examine historical developments from prehistoric art to contemporary avant-garde and YouTube - Develop critical frameworks for interpreting performance in social, political, and artistic contexts ### Program Overview ### Module 1: What is Performance? 2 weeks - Defining performance: art, ritual, play, and social acts - Performance vs. performativity - The role of audience and context ### Module 2: Performance Across Cultures 3 weeks - Traditional performance in Africa, Asia, and the Caribbean - Colonial and postcolonial influences on performance - Globalization and hybrid forms ### Module 3: Performance and Everyday Life 2 weeks - Ritual, ceremony, and social roles - Performance in politics and public life - Identity and self-presentation in digital spaces ### Module 4: From Cave Art to YouTube 3 weeks - Historical evolution of performance practices - Avant-garde and experimental performance - Emerging digital and networked performance ### Get certificate #### Job Outlook - Relevant for careers in arts administration, cultural research, and education - Useful for artists, performers, and curators seeking interdisciplinary frameworks - Supports roles in media, communication, and community engagement ## Editorial Take Richard Schechner’s 'Introduction to Performance Studies' offers a rare opportunity to learn from one of the field’s most influential thinkers. Designed for curious minds, it provides a sweeping, interdisciplinary survey of performance as a lens for understanding human behavior and culture. ### Standout Strengths - Foundational Authority: Richard Schechner’s pioneering role in performance studies lends unparalleled credibility and depth. His insights reflect decades of scholarship and global fieldwork, offering learners direct access to a key architect of the discipline. - Global Scope: The course spans continents and eras, from African ritual to Caribbean carnival and digital activism. This breadth fosters a truly international understanding of performance beyond Western theatrical traditions. - Conceptual Clarity: Complex ideas like 'performativity' and 'restored behavior' are broken down with precision. Learners gain tools to analyze everything from political speeches to social media posts as performance. - Historical Range: From paleolithic cave art to YouTube, the course traces performance’s evolution. This timeline approach helps contextualize modern expressions within deep human history. - Interdisciplinary Approach: Blending theatre, anthropology, sociology, and media studies, the course models how performance studies bridges academic silos. This makes it valuable across humanities and social sciences. - Relevance to Contemporary Life: The module on digital performance examines memes, livestreams, and online identity. It makes abstract theory tangible by linking it to everyday internet experiences. ### Honest Limitations - Abstract Over Practical: While conceptually rich, the course lacks hands-on projects or performance creation. Learners seeking to build artistic skills may find it too theoretical and detached from practice. - Uneven Depth: Some topics, like avant-garde theatre, receive more attention than others. The broad scope means certain regions or forms are covered briefly, risking superficial treatment. - Passive Learning Format: As a lecture-driven course, engagement is limited. Without discussion forums or peer feedback, learners must self-motivate to reflect deeply on the material. - Outdated Examples: Some case studies feel dated, especially in digital media. More recent phenomena like TikTok or deepfake performances are not addressed, limiting contemporary relevance. ### How to Get the Most Out of It - Study cadence: Dedicate 3–4 hours weekly to lectures and readings. Spread sessions across the week to absorb complex ideas and revisit key concepts. - Parallel project: Keep a 'performance journal'—document everyday acts (commuting, meetings) as performances. This reinforces theoretical learning through personal observation. - Note-taking: Use mind maps to connect concepts like ritual, play, and performativity. Visualizing relationships strengthens retention of abstract frameworks. - Community: Join Coursera discussion boards or form a study group. Sharing interpretations of performance examples deepens understanding through dialogue. - Practice: Apply concepts to real-world events—analyze a political debate or social media trend using course frameworks. This builds analytical fluency. - Consistency: Stick to a weekly schedule. The course builds cumulatively, and falling behind reduces the impact of later, more complex modules. ### Supplementary Resources - Book: Read Schechner’s 'Performance Theory' to go deeper into his ideas. It complements the course with more detailed case studies and theoretical development. - Tool: Use 'Padlet' or 'Miro' to create collaborative boards analyzing global performances. Visual collaboration enhances engagement with diverse cultural examples. - Follow-up: Enroll in NYU’s 'Global Theatre' or 'Digital Media and Society' courses to extend learning. These build on performance studies with focused lenses. - Reference: Explore the 'Journal of Performance Studies' for academic articles. It provides ongoing scholarly discourse to continue post-course exploration. ### Common Pitfalls - Pitfall: Treating performance only as theatre. Many learners overlook how the course redefines performance broadly—correct this by applying concepts to non-artistic social behaviors. - Pitfall: Expecting skill-based training. This is a theoretical course. Avoid frustration by adjusting expectations toward critical analysis rather than performance technique. - Pitfall: Skipping readings. The lectures assume familiarity with key texts. Without supplemental reading, learners may miss nuanced arguments and historical context. ### Time & Money ROI - Time: The 10-week commitment is reasonable for the depth offered. However, self-paced learners may rush—aim for steady engagement to maximize insight. - Cost-to-value: At a premium price, value depends on interest level. For humanities students, it's worthwhile. For casual learners, the cost may outweigh benefits. - Certificate: The credential holds academic weight but limited job market value. It’s best used to demonstrate interdisciplinary curiosity on resumes or applications. - Alternative: Free resources like MIT OpenCourseWare offer similar themes. However, Schechner’s direct instruction justifies the fee for dedicated learners. ### Editorial Verdict This course stands as a thoughtful, intellectually stimulating introduction to a field that reshapes how we see human expression. While not designed for skill acquisition, it excels in expanding worldviews and fostering critical analysis of cultural practices. Learners gain a powerful lens to interpret rituals, politics, and digital life—not just as observers, but as participants in ongoing performances. The structure is logical, the content vast, and the perspective uniquely informed by Schechner’s lifetime of scholarship. That said, it’s not for everyone. Those seeking hands-on creative training or immediate career applications may find it too abstract. The lack of interactivity and dated digital examples are real drawbacks. Yet, for students in humanities, education, or cultural studies, this course offers rare conceptual depth and global awareness. With supplemental reading and active reflection, it can be transformative. We recommend it selectively—primarily to intellectually curious learners ready to engage deeply with theory and culture. ## How Richard Schechner's Introduction to Performance Studies Course Compares | Course | Platform | Rating | Level | Duration | | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | | Richard Schechner's Introduction to Performance Studies Course | Coursera | 7.6/10 | Beginner | 10 weeks | | Exploring Global Festivals and Celebrations Course | Udemy | 10.0/10 | N/A | N/A | | Improving Educational Outcomes through Family Engagement course | EDX | 9.7/10 | N/A | N/A | | University Chemistry course | EDX | 9.7/10 | N/A | N/A | ## Who Should Take Richard Schechner's Introduction to Performance Studies Course? This course is best suited for learners with no prior experience in education & teacher training. It is designed for career changers, fresh graduates, and self-taught learners looking for a structured introduction. The course is offered by New York University on Coursera, combining institutional credibility with the flexibility of online learning. Upon completion, you will receive a course certificate that you can add to your LinkedIn profile and resume, signaling your verified skills to potential employers. If you are exploring adjacent fields, you might also consider courses in Agile & Scrum Courses, AI Courses, Arts and Humanities Courses, which complement the skills covered in this course. ### Career Outcomes - Apply education & teacher training skills to real-world projects and job responsibilities - Qualify for entry-level positions in education & teacher training and related fields - Build a portfolio of skills to present to potential employers - Add a course certificate credential to your LinkedIn and resume - Continue learning with advanced courses and specializations in the field ## More Education & Teacher Training Courses on Coursera Explore other highly rated courses in education & teacher training available on Coursera to expand your learning path: - ChatGPT Foundations for Teachers course 9.7/10 - Chosen Issues in Holocaust History Course 9.2/10 - Generative AI in the Classroom for Educators Course 8.7/10 - Generative AI for Students: Ethics & Academic Integrity Course 8.7/10 - Generative AI for University Leaders 8.7/10 - Exploring Beethoven's Piano Sonatas Part 4 Course 8.7/10 - Exploring Beethoven's Piano Sonatas Part 5 Course 8.7/10 - Expanding SEL: Community and Youth Empowerment in Social and Emotional Learning 8.7/10 - Excellence in Online Teaching Course 8.7/10 - Teaching EFL/ESL Reading: A Task Based Approach 8.7/10 ## Top Alternatives on Other Platforms Looking for a different teaching style or approach? 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Be the first to share your experience! ## FAQs What are the prerequisites for Richard Schechner's Introduction to Performance Studies Course? No prior experience is required. Richard Schechner's Introduction to Performance Studies Course is designed for complete beginners who want to build a solid foundation in Education & Teacher Training. It starts from the fundamentals and gradually introduces more advanced concepts, making it accessible for career changers, students, and self-taught learners. Does Richard Schechner's Introduction to Performance Studies Course offer a certificate upon completion? Yes, upon successful completion you receive a course certificate from New York University. This credential can be added to your LinkedIn profile and resume, demonstrating verified skills to employers. In competitive job markets, having a recognized certificate in Education & Teacher Training can help differentiate your application and signal your commitment to professional development. How long does it take to complete Richard Schechner's Introduction to Performance Studies Course? The course takes approximately 10 weeks to complete. It is offered as a paid course on Coursera, which means you can learn at your own pace and fit it around your schedule. The content is delivered in English and includes a mix of instructional material, practical exercises, and assessments to reinforce your understanding. Most learners find that dedicating a few hours per week allows them to complete the course comfortably. What are the main strengths and limitations of Richard Schechner's Introduction to Performance Studies Course? Richard Schechner's Introduction to Performance Studies Course is rated 7.6/10 on our platform. Key strengths include: taught by richard schechner, a foundational scholar in performance studies, offering rare access to a pioneer’s perspective; covers a remarkably wide range of performance forms across cultures and historical periods; encourages critical thinking about everyday life as performance, deepening cultural awareness. Some limitations to consider: limited practical exercises or opportunities for creative application; some topics feel broad or superficial due to the course’s wide scope. Overall, it provides a strong learning experience for anyone looking to build skills in Education & Teacher Training. How will Richard Schechner's Introduction to Performance Studies Course help my career? Completing Richard Schechner's Introduction to Performance Studies Course equips you with practical Education & Teacher Training skills that employers actively seek. The course is developed by New York University, whose name carries weight in the industry. The skills covered are applicable to roles across multiple industries, from technology companies to consulting firms and startups. Whether you are looking to transition into a new role, earn a promotion in your current position, or simply broaden your professional skillset, the knowledge gained from this course provides a tangible competitive advantage in the job market. Where can I take Richard Schechner's Introduction to Performance Studies Course and how do I access it? Richard Schechner's Introduction to Performance Studies Course is available on Coursera, one of the leading online learning platforms. You can access the course material from any device with an internet connection — desktop, tablet, or mobile. The course is paid, giving you the flexibility to learn at a pace that suits your schedule. All you need is to create an account on Coursera and enroll in the course to get started. How does Richard Schechner's Introduction to Performance Studies Course compare to other Education & Teacher Training courses? Richard Schechner's Introduction to Performance Studies Course is rated 7.6/10 on our platform, placing it as a solid choice among education & teacher training courses. Its standout strengths — taught by richard schechner, a foundational scholar in performance studies, offering rare access to a pioneer’s perspective — set it apart from alternatives. What differentiates each course is its teaching approach, depth of coverage, and the credentials of the instructor or institution behind it. We recommend comparing the syllabus, student reviews, and certificate value before deciding. What language is Richard Schechner's Introduction to Performance Studies Course taught in? Richard Schechner's Introduction to Performance Studies Course is taught in English. Many online courses on Coursera also offer auto-generated subtitles or community-contributed translations in other languages, making the content accessible to non-native speakers. The course material is designed to be clear and accessible regardless of your language background, with visual aids and practical demonstrations supplementing the spoken instruction. Is Richard Schechner's Introduction to Performance Studies Course kept up to date? Online courses on Coursera are periodically updated by their instructors to reflect industry changes and new best practices. New York University has a track record of maintaining their course content to stay relevant. We recommend checking the "last updated" date on the enrollment page. Our own review was last verified recently, and we re-evaluate courses when significant updates are made to ensure our rating remains accurate. Can I take Richard Schechner's Introduction to Performance Studies Course as part of a team or organization? Yes, Coursera offers team and enterprise plans that allow organizations to enroll multiple employees in courses like Richard Schechner's Introduction to Performance Studies Course. Team plans often include progress tracking, dedicated support, and volume discounts. This makes it an effective option for corporate training programs, upskilling initiatives, or academic cohorts looking to build education & teacher training capabilities across a group. What will I be able to do after completing Richard Schechner's Introduction to Performance Studies Course? After completing Richard Schechner's Introduction to Performance Studies Course, you will have practical skills in education & teacher training that you can apply to real projects and job responsibilities. You will be prepared to pursue more advanced courses or specializations in the field. 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