Lessons for Instructor–Student Interactions in Physics from the World of Improvisational Theater.

The article focuses on applying improvisational theater ("improv") techniques, as developed by the Alan Alda Center for Communicating Science at Stony Brook University, to enhance physics teaching and student interactions. It highlights three core improv principles—active listening, the "yes, and ..." approach, and the "button"—demonstrating how each can improve communication and conceptual understanding in physics education. Active listening involves attentively interpreting students’ ideas to identify and clarify misconceptions; the "yes, and ..." principle encourages building on students’ existing mental models rather than dismissing incorrect notions; and the "button" refers to intentionally concluding discussions with a meaningful takeaway that connects to broader concepts. These improv strategies provide practical frameworks for instructors to navigate unplanned classroom dialogues effectively and support student learning.