Outcomes
Ross McDonald: "Every interval they're in the Graphics class working by themselves. We've 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."
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.
The advantage of having students work on individual projects was that 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 one to 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. Ross notes that they are now getting students arriving and staying in this area. Year 10 Graphics was the only subject which had to be closed off this year, being capped at three classes all of which have good students.
Student Reflections: "Choice, much better than other classes. We had fun but also learnt heaps." "Great subject, great project, great fun, great results, I hope." "Excellent! Bring on next year!"
Ross is pleased that Beacon Practice has given the stimulus and support to work on developing 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 allowed for sharing ideas and peer review and support of his students' work. Visits from outside facilitators have helped with looking at different perspectives and angles that the department hadn't considered before.
