Jonothan Neelands

Jonothan Neelands is a Professor affiliated with the University of Northampton's Faculty of Education & Humanities, specifically within the Education, Children and Young People department. His work focuses on drama education and its role in fostering democratic citizenship. He is the author of compiled writings featured in Creating Democratic Citizenship Through Drama Education, edited by Peter O'Connor, which synthesizes his 25-year academic journey. This collection emphasizes theoretical frameworks for integrating drama into curricula to enhance critical thinking, empathy, and global awareness among students.

His research explores the interplay between drama, pedagogy, and societal values, advocating for student-centered learning environments. The book’s three sections—Making Sense of Drama, The Argument for Drama, and Pro-Social Pedagogy—highlight his evolution from foundational theory to applied practices like oral history projects (The Arrival). Neelands’ approach prioritizes teacher facilitation, encouraging students to engage with diverse perspectives through role-play and story analysis.

No specific scientific awards or grants are documented in the provided text. His contributions are primarily theoretical, with practical lesson exemplars aimed at educators. Neelands’ work aligns with curriculum standards like the UK’s National Curriculum and addresses contemporary educational challenges, though the review critiques the book’s uneven focus on practicality versus theory.