Guest Critics in Class
I find in design oriented classes bringing in guest critics to look at and discuss each student work to be a great benefit. It gives the student a chance to dialogue with respected colleagues and more importantly get different point of view regarding their design work. The guest's input can be assessed and implemented if the student believes it is beneficial to their project, or it can filed away for further consideration. Guest critics also help students become more comfortable with presenting in front of others, which they will be doing for the rest of their academic and professional careers.
Hi Denise:
Classroom observation by whomever ought to be a regular, ongoing activity that is so commonplace the teacher just accepts it as part of the day. Less frequent visits and observer comments tend to make the teacher anxious or not be themselves. But even if that's not the case, I think more feedback is always better and helps strengthen us as educators.
Regards, Barry
Bringing in guest speakers, department chairs or even fellow instructors can be very helpful for the students. They will more than likely receive different feedback from each individual.
Hi Mia:
Good analogy, Mia. Critiqueing this way helps fine tune students learning (or lack of). It also reinforces weaker areas.
Regards, Barry
I agree I think this is a great idea and it continues to intrique the interest of the student. Its the same as cross referencing material. But its just more of a physical tool, by having someone there tangibly.
Hi Alexander:
Like a lot of things, practice is the key to mastering or at least perfecting a skill or activity. Practice, practice, practice. That's what works for say, musicians. If they miss too many days without practive they begin to loose their edge. So it is with being comfortable presenting and receiving critiques. With practice, it'll become just a routine matter!
Regards, Barry
