Zooming into Art Classes….

Have you tried an art class on zoom?

Nine weeks ago, I decided to take my art classes online.   I thought I would share this with you. In reference to Clint Eastwood’s film, let’s talk about the “Good, the Bad and Ugly’.  

From an educator’s viewpoint Zoom is just a tool in an arsenal of pedagogical methods.   Some people seem to adapt to life on-screen, while others simply don’t.  My neighbour, a teacher using online teaching, noted gregarious children can become quiet and shy, while others blossom on-screen.  I have personally lost contact with friends with an aversion to screen time, yet I have re-connected with old friends.   My cousins and I held a Cous-Zoom meeting and are planning another one.  

I have noticed a lot of cons and pros of this teaching method.   I’ll start with the limitations first but then will go on the pros.   Please read through the entire list!

CONs

- a lack of social interaction 

We are missing our time together.  I think that all my students would agree, in a perfect world, we prefer spending time together in person. Not being able to hug each other was a big disadvantage. 

- Computer literacy 

There were difficulties with people not having the right equipment or computer skills.   This is a greater societal issue that we need to discuss. I’ve heard of school children unable to take part in online learning as they don't have access to computers.  Personally, I had people unable to join as their computers were older.  Some students were limited in their knowledge of how to share photos on-screen.

- Motivation was sometimes an issue.  

Finding motivation was difficult.  This is often the case for online learning.   When gathered together the synergy of the class is greater.  While separate on screens people can feel isolated. 

- The limits of technology

At times there were breakdowns, poor connections, and glitches to the program that caused issues.  This was frustrating to everyone. 

- As a teacher, it took a lot more time and energy to prep for classes

PROs

- Our online classes were better than not meeting.  At least we were able to connect to each other.   We learned while social distancing safely at home.  One of my students said that these classes were helping her get through this difficult time.  I felt thankful for the distraction as well. 

- Accessibility to materials.  

I was able to develop online materials and lectures.  My students have continued access to these materials beyond the course’s time period.  They can go back to review them at their leisure. 

- Enrichment

There was an opportunity to include more background information and links to the topics we discussed in class. The feedback I received from my students was that they felt challenged and engaged.  I felt that we were able to go deeper into the material.

- Discovery of new artist’s works. 

This started as a disadvantage.   Due to Copywrite laws, my examples were paintings 100 years or older.   I found and shared new artists including those from Sweden, the UK, the US, and Russia.  I discovered many new inspiring artists.

- As a facilitator, I needed to present content differently.

While on a Zoom call, a dance instructor commented that she felt challenged to deliver material in a new way.  I hadn’t thought of it, but it was true.   I tried to go beyond online lectures, which are boring.  I shared photos, did online demos, included videos, did paint alongs, conducted class discussions, and illustrated demos in my notes.   I felt a responsibility to include all students and so could spotlight each and hear their experiences.  I encouraged my students to take part in online critiques.  We learned how to share photos and use pen tools to draw and illustrate our thoughts.  At first, I found the online interactions a bit silted, but as my students adapted, we had some great critiques and discussions.   

- Flexibility

 Students could accommodate their lessons into their busy lives.   They did the readings and assignments when they could.  If they missed a lesson, they could catch up later as they had the notes and assignments.  Some of them had children and so could attend classes while minding the kids! 

- Accessibility

At times there are issues getting to class.   Traffic is a problem.  Sometimes people have health or mobility issues.   There are many reasons people are housebound.   I think there will be a continued demand for online classes.  Accessibility to them is a definite asset. 

Zoom and other online platforms have their limitations.  Overall though, I was thankful for Zoom.  It allowed me to continue mentoring and teaching my students.   I learned new skills and found inspiration for my growth as an artist.  

I will be teaching an online Challenge Course starting on June 30th. 

Now is your chance to try this new type of online class. We will be meeting online for nine weeks.  I will be issuing a challenge each week. It might be painting every day for a week or painting a larger format. It could also be trying a new acrylic technique.    The class is currently discounted at $275 from the regular price of $325.  If you are interested, you can email me for more information.   

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Hope for Despairing Times