Authentic Audience

Definition: An audience who is an expert in the field in which the student is engaging. Engaging an authentic audience for student projects, writing, or research ensures that students are doing the work of the field, not just learning about it. For example, if students are asked to write a bonus scene at the end of a unit on reading a Shakespeare play, they might present their writing as a performance for an experienced thespian with decades of experience performing and directing Shakespeare. An authentic audience will be able to provide expert feedback and elevate a student’s final project, as well as expand the student’s network and confidence and bring relevance to their project.