Introduction to Improv for Confident Science Communication

FAQs

• What is Improv?

  Improv, or improvisational theatre, is a style of acting where you perform scenes without a script.

  Famous examples of improv include Whose Line Is It Anyway?, Game Changer, and tabletop roleplaying games like Critical Role and Dimension 20.

  Improv is all about grounding yourself in the moment, seizing opportunities, and trusting your instincts and scene partners.

• Improv... but online?

  While improv is often done in person, it can be just as fun and creative online—just with a slightly different flavour. Online improv increases accessibility and offers a low-pressure environment from the comfort of your own home.

• What do I need for online Improv?

  For online improv, you’ll need access to your phone / laptop, a camera, microphone, and a reliable internet connection.

  I recommend finding a quiet, comfy space for the session, and having a drink nearby (there’ll be time to make a cuppa during the break!).

  If you have any questions or accessibility requirements, please get in touch!

• What makes this a pilot course?

  I have run similar courses before, but for this one I want to specialise more on developing specific skills in STEM studies and careers, and simulating situations/interactions we find when communicating STEM topics.

  For this mission, I have methodically crafted a program of exercises, including new and original exercises, to play through!

  I'm running this shorter 4-week pilot course, preceding the full 6-week training course, at a heavily discounted price (reduced by over half the intended course price) to gain insights and ask for feedback.

  The per-session cost is similar to causal improv drop-ins instead of training session pricing.

• Do I need any Improv experience?

  Nope, this course is designed for any improv experience level including zero experience.

  This course will cover the foundations of improv and then apply it to STEM-situations, as well as in games and exercises to build confidence and the ability to adapt.

  I have taught many people with zero experience improv, and you will be well supported especially if this is your first time!

  Feel free to get in contact if you want to talk about starting improv and you want specific support or accommodations.

• Can I still join if I am only tangentially involved in STEM (e.g. STEM is a hobby, not a study or career)?

  Absolutely!

  If you are passionate about STEM and enjoy talking about it, then this is a great opportunity to do so whilst improving your communication skills.

• Do you use safety tools?

  Yes!

  I recap community safe guarding at the start of each session such as agreeing on an "age-rating" for scenes and ensuring no ones identity is allowed to be a punchline, as well as instruct tools for attendees to use at any time such as pause, change, rewind and stop. Methods for safe guarding are implanted before, during and after sessions.

  We do our best improv, and have the most fun, when everyone feels safe and supported. If there are any topics or themes you'd prefer to avoid in scenes, please let me know in advance where possible. We'll also recap a list of themes to avoid at the start of each session to help keep things safe and enjoyable for all.

  STEM-Improv events are 18+ only.

• When will I get the Zoom link for sessions?

  Zoom links will be sent out around 7 days before each session.

• Is there a discount or bursary on offer?

  Yes.
  For the pilot course, there are a few partial-bursaries available for people on low-income further discounting the course free from £70 to £35.

  Please get in touch to request a partial-bursary. No evidence required and please let me know if there is any other support you may need.

  Join the newsletter to keep up to date on future course: https://tinyurl.com/mrk5pu9z

• I see that you are collecting donations, for what cause?

  Donations go towards bursary places for this course, which partial bursaries are on offer, and future courses where I hope to offer full bursary places through donation support. If you are considering making a donation, thank you so much!