Role Play

What is a role play?

It is any speaking activity when you either put yourself in others shoe. In role playing, students act out characters in a predefined "situation".

Role playing allows students to take risk-free positions by acting out characters in hypothetical situations. It can help them understand the range of concerns, values, and positions held by other people. Role playing is an enlightening and interesting way to help students see a problem from another perspective.

Purpose:

1. long term retention(learning by doing) 
2. enhance active participation and decision making
3. exchange of knowledge
4. developed  skills and build confidence

Merits: 

1. interest  in the topic is raised
2. active participation
3. long term retention
4. enhance communication and interpersonal skills
5. developed confidence and self-efficacy

Demerits:

1. less effective in large groups
2. embarrassment for some students
3. lack focus unless well planned and monitored
4. time consuming
5. unpredictable in terms of outcomes