Assessment:
The use of assessments typically depends on the specific class being taught. I will use my Digital Photography Class as an example.
The class is structured around a trimester schedule. We meet for seventy minutes each day for twelve weeks. The first three weeks are designed around the introduction of basic photographic information and class setup (cameras, computers etc.). Within these first couple weeks, the students are assessed in three projects. Each is based on image composition and the settings of the camera. One project is to create a Photo Slideshow presentation (using Keynote) that compares the effects of the shutter and aperture settings on a photograph. This not only serves as a visual display of the photographs they shot, but also a document of reflection about the assignment. The other two projects are displayed in a blog slideshow that is used to assess their understanding of image composition when taking photographs and social media technology tools.
Once this phase of the class is completed, the main structure of the course is established. Each week the students receive one shooting demonstration, complete one shooting assignment and one photo editing assignment. The shooting assignment is completed out of class and is based on a chosen subject. They are allowed to choose one of twelve different subjects each week. The final project is displayed on their blog, assessed by their peers through a critique process, and submitted to me for grading.
After completing the class curriculum and shooting assignments, a culminating portfolio is then created. This piece is an excellent display of the many skills and concepts the students have been developing during the class.
A midterm quiz and written final exam assess their technical knowledge about the settings and photo concepts covered throughout the class. It provides a good balance between the technical knowledge assessment and practical hands-on applications that the photo assignments offer.
The class is structured around a trimester schedule. We meet for seventy minutes each day for twelve weeks. The first three weeks are designed around the introduction of basic photographic information and class setup (cameras, computers etc.). Within these first couple weeks, the students are assessed in three projects. Each is based on image composition and the settings of the camera. One project is to create a Photo Slideshow presentation (using Keynote) that compares the effects of the shutter and aperture settings on a photograph. This not only serves as a visual display of the photographs they shot, but also a document of reflection about the assignment. The other two projects are displayed in a blog slideshow that is used to assess their understanding of image composition when taking photographs and social media technology tools.
Once this phase of the class is completed, the main structure of the course is established. Each week the students receive one shooting demonstration, complete one shooting assignment and one photo editing assignment. The shooting assignment is completed out of class and is based on a chosen subject. They are allowed to choose one of twelve different subjects each week. The final project is displayed on their blog, assessed by their peers through a critique process, and submitted to me for grading.
After completing the class curriculum and shooting assignments, a culminating portfolio is then created. This piece is an excellent display of the many skills and concepts the students have been developing during the class.
A midterm quiz and written final exam assess their technical knowledge about the settings and photo concepts covered throughout the class. It provides a good balance between the technical knowledge assessment and practical hands-on applications that the photo assignments offer.
Data:
Need evidence of learning? These are some of the final class reflections from Digital Photography students. I believe these posts truly showcase some of the learning that my students achieve in this class:
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More Data?
Here are some photos of the awards we have won in our video production program.