The Process of Developing Drama Students Holistically with the Enneagram theory

Abstract

Currently, an enormous number of prospective acting students are only devoted to the study of techniques and methodologies aimed at enhancing their acting abilities (hard skills), therefore overlooking other important aspects of an actor's life. The researcher identifies the possibility of expanding the theory of the Enneagram theory, which includes behavioral learning, motivation, and internal drives, to comprehensively improve the fundamental life skills (soft skills) of acting students.

The objective of this study is to devise the use of linguistics in fostering the holistic development of students. Applying a mixed methods research approach, this study employs qualitative research technique and adopts the Practice as Research (PaR) paradigm. The target audience consists of students enrolled in the Acting Course. The researcher devised a learning methodology that combines the principles of speech science with performance science and experiential learning, based on a comprehensive 60-hour training regimen. Employing participatory observation and conducting in-depth informal interviews. The findings indicate that Enneagram theory serves as a versatile instrument for acting students to examine and comprehend characters. It facilitates the identification of their primary needs (super objective) and driving force or motivation (motivation), as well as the cognitive processes and worldview, as well as the behavioral patterns of characters in a directional manner. The Enneagram theory also made a significant contribution to the comprehensive growth of students based on the quality assessment list devised by the researcher. This list is categorized into four areas : 1) identification of physical potential that is prepared for learning and acting, 2) understanding of how to interact and collaborate with others within constraints, and 3) understanding of the cognitive learning process. Fourthly, the cultivation of crucial attributes that align with the eventual professionalism of the theater artist. This study has resulted in the unification of the fields of the Enneagram theory and acting. The concept of creating activities derived from this study would enhance the growth of acting students in the various aspects of performing abilities and life, therefore enabling them to become actors with a promising and fulfilling future.