Distribution of Grades:
Project Development
I. Ongoing participation in class and with studio projects = 60% of final grade
The overall quality of student work is directly reflective on one’s involvement with the class and outside studio practice. Strong participation will naturally impact student development and therefore, grade positively.
These are both the minor projects that emphasize development of fundamental design principles, methods explorations and media advancement, and the final major project at the semester’s conclusion.
Reworking of a project after the initial critique will be allowed at the discretion of the instructor.
Student work is graded on imagination, originality, concept, process, understanding and implementation of design principles, craftsmanship and a successful solution to the problem given.
The safe way is not the best way in visual production, taking risks and experimentation are vital to keeping one’s work fresh and exciting. Incomplete projects will receive an F.
II. The “Sketchbook” = 20%
Evidence of on-going and engaged activity.
Sketchbook entries will also include concept, schematic, weekly entries as assigned by the professor.
Sketchbooks will be checked periodically throughout the semester.
III. Multi media presentations and research paper(s) = 20% of final grade (2 presentations & 2 papers)
Research is an expectation of all students.
Students will be assigned a specific research topic that will be compiled electronically and delivered to the class.
One presentation will be occur around midterm.
The second presentation, in week 13 and 14.
Formal research papers will accompany both presentations and will illustrate depth full and thorough research practices and information on the selected subject (far beyond what is delivered in the presentation).
Methods of Evaluation
Your work is graded on imagination, originality, concept, process, understanding and implementation of design principles, craftsmanship and a successful solution to the problem given.
Within this grade will be on your participation, effort, willingness to share your expertise and opinion with peers, follow through and exploration of idea
development.
The safe way is not the best way in the development of new forms, taking risks and experimentation is vital in keeping your work fresh and exciting.
Each student must present his or her ideas for each project to the class in the form of sketches and/or models. Professional practices include attendance, participating in critiques and using the studio responsibly.
Excellent Student Output + Growth
Overall student preparation, engaged participation, class investment including....
Student attendance, their participation, and professionalism
A strong showing in this category can increase your final grade by a half grade, i.e. c+ becomes b-, b becomes b+!
However, a weak showing in this area can severely reduce your grade.
Students who miss class, in an extreme case, are responsible for notifying faculty prior to class start time.
Two excused absences will be acceptable, beyond that, each absence will impact the student's overall final grade by 2%
Students who are absent from a class are expected to be prepared with ALL assignments and readings due at the next class meeting.
Standards for evaluation + grading overview
Grades are based on a number of factors that include class participation, attendance, attitude, effort, project execution, project evolution, and improvement.
It is important that the student be prepared to initiate a discussion regarding current readings and come to class with thorough notes.
Intellectual understanding and exploration of the readings and individual drive are significant factors in grading a student’s level of participation.
Quality participation is characterized by the following:
• On time attendance at each class meeting.
• Active, enthusiastic participation in class discussions and with their outside assignments.
• Preparation and understanding of assignments in the classroom, with research and presentations. The student continues to ask thoughtful questions
• Responding to others’ comments in a responsible and constructive manner
• Contributing regularly and mindfully to others
• Leadership and active participation independently and in small group activities
A student’s work performance in class is based on the instructor’s observation and record of the student’s personal performance in the following areas:
• Attitude, demeanor – courteous, respectful, teachable, considerate of other students’ needs for concentration.
• Attendance, punctuality, and handing in work on time.
• Participation in class projects, in critiques and discussions, within collaborative projects.
• Conduct – Helping to create an atmosphere conducive to creativity and keeping the workspace neat.