Being a student again Balancing artistic practice with academic writing.
On starting my PG Cert I have found myself focusing on self-reflection and gaining a new found empathy for the combination of excitement, anxiety and uncertainty which I see in my students. Revisiting my own learner journey highlights how society has changed in the 30 plus years since my graduation and the implications these changes have had on the current student experience. The positive changes being increased support mechanisms (both pastoral and academic) which were non-existent during my student days.
Seeing life through a student’s lens for the first time in so long has given me a shift in perspective. It emphasises just how important it is to create supportive inclusive learning environments for all learners. It has also shown me that being a mature learner does not make the process any easier. Reengaging in formal education reinforces the value of lifelong learning and its importance for those in leadership roles. “The Fifth Discipline” by Peter Senge (Senge 1990). explores the advantages of continuous learning for organisational success.
I have always learnt and gained new skills throughout my career, however these have mostly been practical skills used within industry or learning how to use new digital/online technology. Revisiting academic writing after such a long period is challenging as both require different types of focus and mental engagement. I know that this experience will help me foster a more understanding and compassionate approach to my own teaching.
On evaluation of our first lesson I found that my anxiety and first day nerves were eased greatly through the collaborative aspects of the session. The Ice breaker at the start, group critiques and collaborative feedback helped to alleviate pressure. I feel supported, less isolated and more confident to express my opinion knowing that I am surrounded by like-minded people who are familiar with the balance between art and academia. “Group Dynamics: Icebreakers, Team-Building and Leadership Exercises” by Chris Eksteen (Eksteen 2016) offers exercises demonstrating the effectiveness of Ice breakers to promote a sense of community and break down barriers.
Balancing creative practice with academic writing has always been problematic for students on our course (hair make up and prosthetics for performance) as it is a creative, practical subject and this is a challenge I am now facing. As I navigate my way through my PG Cert I hope to develop ways of becoming more comfortable with these academic aspects, find more of a balance, and some parallels between, academic writing and practical application. I am looking forward to gaining new skills and strategies to guide myself and my students through these contextual challenges. I am also enthused by the benefits of extending my UAL peer group and learning new strategies and teaching methods which are used on the variety of courses we all teach on.
Bibliography:
Eksteen, C., Opperman Kemp, S. (ed.) & Eksteen, L. (cover design), 2016. Group Dynamics: Icebreakers, Team-Building and Leadership Exercises. [book] Panza Publishers
Senge, P. M. (1990). The Fifth Discipline: The Art & Practice of the Learning Organization. Doubleday.