Sunday, June 9, 2019

Class Evaluation; Trials and Tribulations


1. Why did you take this class?

I felt the compulsion to take this class due to the artistic growth the NCTEC program has to offer. Although I had barely known anything about it after being told very little about it in the introductory presentation in my homeschool. I grew up watching animations by other teens, professionals, and freelancers on Youtube, and these, along with other forms of media, and I wanted to create alongside them, and this is my chance to make something someone can appreciate.

2. In general, what did you like most about this class?

I loved the creative freedom we had through the class, from our animation principles to our final project. The friendly attitude and bonds we've made through this class are amazing and I couldn't ask for a better group of people to work with!

3. In general, what did you like least about this class?

The deadlines were annoying, although completely necessary. What ticked me off, however, was how I found myself aiming to use the late days and take those points as if it was nothing. I would suggest making taking a late day or two much riskier, as to not encourage turning work in late. The room was also really dry a lot of the time, which only added to my drowsiness.

4. What was your most favorite project and why?

the final project, of course! the idea fascinated me, and I already had something like that planned beforehand, so the process was fun and enjoyable!

5. What was your least favorite project and why?

the independent study! this was the part where i feel like there was too much of an open end to the process and what you could do. nobody really finished to a point they were comfortable with, so we all collectively missed the mark. I would utilize more in-progress checks aside from just during the final project, since they would have definitely helped me along the independent study process.

6. Discuss the overall effectiveness of the instructor (for example: preparation, availability, interest, content knowledge, expectations, etc.).

Ms. Manning, you're amazing. you know your stuff when it comes to macs and animation and i truly appreciate the work you've done and how you've helped me grow as a person and as an artist. Your expectations of us were perfectly reasonable for the job-like setting of NCTEC and you kept me focused on the goals, even through tough spots. You were always available to answer emails whenever I had a question, and now that I know what's possible, I'm truly excited for next year! :]

7. What are the most valuable things you learned in the class?

Time management and sorting your priorities out!

8. Do you feel that this class will help you achieve your future academic or career goals? How or why (or why not)?

absolutely! I plan on using the knowledge and skills gained through this program as a step towards my application to SVA. this class along with AP studio and art feels like a power-up I would've missed had I not considered taking up animation.

9. How could this class be improved?

Implement more in progress checks, especially during the independent study!

10. What would you tell incoming students to help them be more prepared for the class?

Dedication is of utmost importance in this class. Artistic prowess isn't the key to great animations, but, instead, the understanding of the technical aspects of animation that make things such as stick figure fights look astounding. the application of the skills you learn here will fall flat if you aren't motivated to work at them.

11. Additional Comments:
Thanks for an amazing year!! <3