Outcomes
Students enjoyed the challenge of this project and Ross comments "they're seeing where they're going and are very excited about it." Working with their client gave the students a commercial perspective on their work.
Having students work on individual projects meant they could work at their own speed and also meant the teacher was freed up each period to help those who needed it. Because it was a senior class, the teacher was able to work on a oneto- one basis, knowing that the rest could be left to work on their own.
Ross and Ana are satisfied that the results are coming through so their approach to the subject must be working. "It was great to see our traditional Graphics students being taken out of their comfort zone and the results have been encouraging," said Ana.
"Every interval students were in the Graphics class working by themselves," said Ross. "Teachers have always stayed in the area; if you show you're happy in the environment and happy with kids coming in, they'll take you up on that and the better kids will lift their standards accordingly."
Ross notes that they are now getting students arriving and staying in this area. Year 10 Graphics was the only subject that had to be closed off this year, being capped at three classes, all of which have good students. "And we're getting better results from Year 11 than ever before. There's a lot of passion and excitement going on in the class, the students are really enjoying it."
Ross says that the Beacon Practice initiative gave the stimulus and support he needed to develop the programme. He notes that the Gisborne schools are very remote and teachers don't have many opportunities to meet, show off work, and bounce ideas off each other. Working with Gisborne Girls' High School has enabled the sharing of ideas and peer review, and support for his students' work. Visits from outside facilitators have helped by providing exposure to different perspectives and approaches that the department hadn't considered before.
Student reflections...
- "It took a long time and a lot of effort, but it was worth it"
- "It was going much further than in Year 10 Graphics"
- "I enjoyed the drawing and practical skills that I learnt"
- "I really enjoyed working on my assignment."
- "Choice, much better than other classes. We had fun but also learned heaps."
- "Great subject, great project, great fun, great results, I hope."
- "Excellent! Bring on next year!"
