What are the positives to come out of teaching art online?
Online, all the students are watching, so we are more careful when pointing out shortcomings. And in online classes, those who are lazy have nothing to do, so they become more shy than usual, and those with enthusiasm become more confident than usual, so they put up more work. And over time, we can look back on student’s work again, read feedback and see an evolution of their art, so online classes have been good in that respect.
Has this transformed your perspectives?
As a teacher to the elderly, for those who have a sudden illness, or a disability that makes it difficult for them to move or attend class face-to-face, online classes have brought a new opportunity to learn again.
How have you kept your students motivated from afar?
I believe it is a teacher’s sincere comments that can motivate a student to continue. Even though some pieces are unfinished, we can still talk about it and continue to praise it, so they work harder in the next class. In addition, the spirit of competition among students in class also plays a big role. When COVID-19 hit the world, I wondered how difficult it would have been if there was no internet or mobile phones. I took this as an opportunity to appreciate the convenience of technology.
What is your one must-know or must-do advice for teachers and students now?
Even in an online class, I find that interaction with people is the most important. In particular, since online communication can be repeatedly seen or heard this can lead to misunderstandings, and so the use of words, actions and language should be taken more carefully than usual.