Ambition

Punchdrunk Enrichment are a transformational theatre company for education, community and family audiences. Punchdrunk Enrichment embarked on a three-year initiative to develop a bespoke evaluation framework for their immersive learning journeys (ILJ’s). ILJ’s are immersive, school-based projects designed to inspire children by making learning fun, engaging, and deeply experiential. By moving beyond traditional educational models, ILJs create dynamic environments that foster creativity and curiosity. The goal of the evaluation framework was to assess the impact of the shows on children's learning, with a focus on  measuring their purpose to learn, as well as their positive emotions, creativity and imagination skills. 

Methods

To achieve this, we designed a framework incorporating a range of quantitative, qualitative, and participatory research methods. We also provided training to the Punchdrunk Enrichment team, equipping them with essential research skills to embed evaluation practices within the organization for long-term sustainability. 

Outcomes

The PPP framework (Purpose, Positivity, and Possibility) was developed in the context of this project to measure children's learning experiences. Our research demonstrated that immersive shows positively impact all aspects of the PPP framework, with the most significant improvement observed in fostering positive emotions. To learn more about our findings, you can read the full published report here.