What constructive changes in teaching and/or course content would improve this course? What were the strongest/most valuable aspects of both course and instructor’s teaching?
OPEN-ENDED QUESTIONS
At the end of every semester I scan the evaluations for some written comments. Filling in the circles is one thing, but when a student takes the effort to write a few words, I take the time and energy to consider their critique of my teaching and the course. Below are some chosen comments from the open-ended questions separated by the highest rated categories of the multi-op section of the evaluations.
MY INSTRUCTOR IS KNOWLEDGEABLE ON COURSE TOPICS.
Most valuable aspect is “her knowledge of graphic design and viewpoints within the field personally, creatively, and technically.”
“She knows a lot about current issues with graphic design.”
“Adrienne is knowledgeable beyond measure in this topic.”
“A. Hooker knows what she’s doing and her experience is helpful.”
I CAN APPLY THIS CLASS TO WORK IN MY FUTURE PROFESSION. THE COURSE IMPROVED MY UNDERSTANDING OF CONCEPTS IN THIS FIELD.
Most valuable aspect is “learning to express what you want with rules or no words; kind of like working with a client.”
“Learning about real life designs.”
“Learning what the graphic design world has to offer within my creative skills.”
“Learning that simple design can be more effective.”
“Understanding the importance of typography and presentation.”
“We focused on design in real-life, once with actual clients, and I appreciate getting so much practical knowledge. I wish a lot of other classes worked that way.”
MY INSTRUCTOR IS WELL PREPARED FOR CLASS MEETINGS.
“Adrienne’s strongest and most valuable aspect is her teaching style. She can explain clearly and concisely techniques, assignments, expectations and she doesn’t belabor them. The pace of the class is great.”
“Teacher is very open-minded and is willing to help when needed.”
“She makes time readily available and is good to talk with; flexible.”
“Enthusiastic. Encouraging. Funny.”
“Liked being here; always willing to meet with you.”
“Adrienne actually explained how to do things! This is the first graphics course that I’ve come out of and learned something!”
MY INSTRUCTOR ENCOURAGES ME TO PARTICIPATE IN DISCUSSIONS.
“I thought the critiques were the most valuable aspect — it was helpful to hear what other students thought of my work.”
“The strongest aspect of this course was probably the group collaboration (painful as it was!). Group design isn’t easy in the real world and it wasn’t in class, but we pulled together and got it done.”
EVALUATIONS OF MY PERFORMANCE ARE CONSTRUCTIVE.
“Very helpful when doing the one-on-one critiques — she never made me feel inferior; very approachable.”
“Critical criticism is great because no one else in the class is giving it.”
“Gives good feedback on projects.”
“She is always available, and is quick to respond to emails and questions.”
“She did a wonderful job with positive critiques making sure to get the point across about what should be improved upon, but not making you feel badly about it.”
MY INSTRUCTOR ASKS QUESTIONS WHICH CHALLENGE ME TO THINK.
“Strongest aspect: interested in subject and helping students.”
“Makes you think about your design.”
“Good with giving ideas.”
“I felt as though she really cared and wanted us to improve to our fullest potential.”
“She is very helpful, and at the same time she pushes students to do our best work.”