Mantle of the Expert (gr. 5)

Mantle of the Expert

The mantle of the expert is a dramatic-inquiry based approach to teaching and learning invented and developed by Professor Dorothy Heathcote at the University of Newcastle upon Tyne in the 1980s. Mantle of the Expert (MoE) is a process-drama technique involving the creation of a fictional world where school children assume the roles of experts in a particular field. A problem or task is established and the teacher and children use imagination and role-play to explore the issue. The children may be involved in mimed activities, improvisation, research or discussion. The teacher's role is to guide the drama, stepping in and out of role as necessary, providing encouragement and motivation to the experts.

Why use it?  The technique can be used to actively explore issues across the curriculum through drama, empowering pupils by giving them an opportunity to assume responsible roles and make decisions in guiding the outcomes.

For more information check out Drama Resource for links and video.

This video example is with grade 5 students at Macklin School (unit link below).