Why Distance Learning? - #33 The Power of Puppetry with Sara Burmenko

#33 The Power of Puppetry with Sara Burmenko

06/10/24 • 40 min

In this episode of the Why Distance Learning? podcast, our hosts interview Sara Burmenko from the Center for Puppetry Arts, delving into the unique world of puppetry as an educational tool. Sara shares her journey from an education major to becoming the director of the digital learning department at the Center for Puppetry Arts, emphasizing how puppetry bridges cultural and educational gaps globally. Her insight into the evolution of puppetry underscores its universal appeal and educational potency, particularly its ability to make learning accessible and engaging across various cultures and languages.

The discussion also explores the technical and expressive aspects of puppetry, with a spotlight on different puppetry styles like Bunraku and shadow puppets. Sara’s passion for puppetry shines as she describes its educational applications, from teaching history through masks to exploring ecological themes with butterfly puppets.

This episode not only highlights the adaptability of puppetry in education but also resonates with the podcast’s theme of making educational experiences accessible through innovative distance learning methods. The conversation concludes with a reflection on the transformative potential of distance learning, akin to historical advances in public access to knowledge.

For more insightful episodes, follow the podcast, share with friends, and explore the detailed show notes linked below.

Guest Links:
1. Center for Puppetry Arts

Host Links:
1. Browse amazing virtual learning opportunities at Tami Moehring and Allyson Mitchell's CILC.org

2. Seth Fleischauer's Banyan Global Learning helps schools leverage technology for teacher and student wellness including AI literacy PD for teachers and, for students, live virtual learning experiences in Character Education: banyangloballearning.com

For more insightful episodes, follow the podcast, share with friends, and explore the detailed show notes linked below.

Guest Links:
1. Center for Puppetry Arts

Host Links:
1. Browse amazing virtual learning opportunities at Tami Moehring and Allyson Mitchell's CILC.org

Previous Episode

#32 Empowering Students with Disabilities through Distance Learning with Laura Loy

In this episode of "Why Distance Learning?" we explore the innovative intersections of arts education, accessibility, and distance learning with Laura Loy. Laura, a seasoned educator and performer, shares how her work at PHAME Academy harnesses the power of the arts to engage and empower adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities through both virtual and in-person learning environments.

Laura delves into the unique challenges and successes of teaching arts online, particularly how virtual platforms provide a space where students who may be shy in person can thrive and express themselves more fully. She highlights the adaptations required to create meaningful online interactions and the surprising benefits of distance learning, such as increased tech literacy and connectivity among students.

The discussion also touches on the practicalities and obstacles of teaching music and performing arts online, where synchronicity and shared physical presence are often crucial. Laura shares her experiences with adapting to these challenges, emphasizing the ongoing need for innovation in online arts education.

Wrapping up the episode, Laura reflects on the broader implications of distance learning for accessibility in education. She posits that virtual classrooms can offer a more inclusive environment that accommodates individuals who may face physical and logistical barriers to traditional education settings.

This episode is a compelling look at how creative approaches to education can break down barriers and expand possibilities for all learners. It’s an essential listen for educators, administrators, and anyone interested in the future of inclusive education.

**Guest Links:**
1. PHAME Academy: Explore their groundbreaking approach to arts education for adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities. https://www.phamepdx.org/

**Show Links:**
1. Lola: A low latency AV streaming platform that might be recommended for online music classes. https://lola.conts.it/
2. Teach FX: Mentioned in relation to providing feedback on teaching practices. https://teachfx.com/

**Host Links:**
1. Discover more virtual learning opportunities and resources at CILC.org with Tami Moehring and Allyson Mitchell.
2. Learn how Seth Fleischauer’s Banyan Global Learning leverages technology to enhance educational outcomes for teachers and students alike.

Next Episode

#34 Social Media As a Form of Distance Learning with Heidi Clements

In this fascinating episode of the Why Distance Learning podcast, your hosts sit down with Heidi Clements, an Instagram influencer with a substantial following, to explore the intersections between social media influence and educational strategies. Heidi, known traditionally for her work as a Hollywood producer but now for her vibrant presence online - particularly on platforms like Instagram and TikTok - shares how her journey as a content creator involves significant elements of distance learning.

Heidi delves into how her background in writing and her personal narratives resonate deeply with her audience, turning her social media pages into platforms of learning and personal development. She discusses the pivotal role of authenticity and vulnerability in connecting with her audience, particularly touching on her initiative to help people feel good about themselves through fashion and personal stories.

The discussion also covers how Heidi's approach to content creation mirrors educational techniques, such as engaging storytelling and maintaining relatability to ensure message retention. She emphasizes the importance of making her followers feel seen and heard, a practice that educators can emulate to enhance engagement and learning outcomes in virtual environments.

This episode is particularly enlightening for educators looking to understand the dynamics of audience engagement on digital platforms and how these strategies can be adapted into more formal educational settings to enhance student engagement and learning.

For more insightful discussions on the transformative power of distance learning, follow the podcast, share with colleagues, and explore the detailed show notes linked below for more on Heidi Clements' innovative approaches to digital content and education.

Guest Links:

Host Links:
1. Browse amazing virtual learning opportunities at Tami Moehring and Allyson Mitchell's CILC.org