An Introductory, Contemporary Guide
to Process and Research
in Speech Performance

Diane E. Howard, Ph.D.
University of Mary Hardin-Baylor

Copyright © 2004
McGraw-Hill New York , ISBN 0072930063, Edition 2

This text provides project-based curriculum for teaching speech performance. It involves action research, student inquiry, experiential learning, constructivism, critical thinking, and multiculturalism at a time when these teaching strategies are being promoted at all educational levels. Although it has been written primarily for university students (see syllabus), the curriculum in this text is being adjusted and utilized by instructors of all ages.

The skills addressed in this book are also applicable for multiple communication contexts, including stage, radio, television, and film. The techniques presented in this text are currently being used by performers and presenters in videostreams and videoconferences. Based on an historical overview, this book outlines techniques for artful speech performance and for writing/performing autobiography. It provides educational guidance for scriptwriting and presenting in on-site and distance education formats. It suggests research methods to evaluate the impact of presentations.

It is being used by some involved in family genealogical work to write and to tell personal or family histories in an engaging way. Providing cutting-edge techniques for historical reenactment or interpretation presentations, it is being used in historical and cultural museums and facilities to bring static displays alive. It has also been appreciated by solo, Broadway, autobiographical performers.

Diane Howard's wonderful book Autobiographical Writing and Performing... works on two very important levels. First, it is an absolute must for anyone involved in the field of autobiographical writing or performing. Second, it would be enormously fascinating to anyone even vaguely interested in the fields of theater and human history. It is with pleasure that I recommend  this wonderful book. George Fishoff, Writer, Performer Of Shepherd,  longest-running, one-person performance from the Bible in New York theatre history.

To order the book or to request an examination, complimentary copy for teaching, contact McGraw-Hill at 1-800-338-3987, or request it online (© 2004, ISBN 0072930063, Edition 2).

Outside of the U.S.A. the book may be requested by telephone,  440.207.176 7000 in the UK. McGraw-Hill Education Europe, Middle East & Africa, McGraw-Hill Education Customer Services can be contacted in the following ways: Shoppenhangers Road, Maidenhead, Berkshire, SL6 2QL, UK;  Customer Services Telephone & Fax Orders: +44 (0)1628 502720, Queries: +44 (0)1628 502500,  Fax: +44 (0)1628 635895 , Customer Services e-mail Orders: emea_orders@mcgraw-hill.com , Queries: emea_queries@mcgraw-hill.com, or  General enquiries: helpline_maidenhead@mcgraw-hill.com.

Voice Sample related to the Process in this Text

Videostreaming, Downloading QuickTime Movie Samples
Apple Corp. Learning Interchange
Dr. Howard's Autobiographical Work Using the McGraw-Hill Text:

Part One- Harriet Tubman
Process and Instructional Value
Distance Autobiographical Writing/Performing

Part Two- Joseph Merrick, The "Elephant Man"
The Postive Role Modeling Effect
Distance Autobiographical Performance

A response to the Apple Learning Interchange performance of
Joseph Merrick, the " Elephant Man"

Part Three- Martha Washington 
How to Choose Historical Figures
Distance Autobiographical Performances

Currently Available Repertoire
Autobiographical Performances
Produced By the Process Outlined in Dr. Howard's Text

Related Publications, Resources by Dr. Howard

Online Course Using this Text

Contact Dr. Howard
dhoward@vvm.com
for on-site and/or distance
     coaching, consulting, presenting, and/or performing

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