Building A Media Arts Program One of the most difficult aspects of building a Media Arts program is acquiring the resources needed for long-term maintenance. Some of the best programs began with one video camera, a VCR, a monitor, and a couple of cables. A vision, combined with staff and students’ enthusiasm, helps media programs develop into permanent aspects of a school’s curriculum. It is best to start small. Utilize your existing resources and educate fellow administrators to the costs involved in making a long-term commitment to Media Arts education.
Step One: Set Goals What do you expect to achieve by introducing the media arts into your school’s curriculum? Be specific. Do not be afraid to dream big, but at the same time, be practical. Align your vision with available resources and don’t over-commit yourself or others. The best programs focus on the quality of instruction, solid assessment, and a slow, well-planned expansion.
Step Two: Inventory Existing Resources What resources already exist at your school? How many computers are available to you? What software can they support? Are there any existing video or photo cameras at the school? What are they used for? Could they be made available to you for use with a new class? Aligning the physical resources can be an overwhelming task, especially if you are not sure how to begin.
Step Three: Identify Staffing Needs Who will teach the class(es) to be offered? Does s/he have any experience working with technology or in the arts? Are there any students who have an interest and the ability to implement a program? At this stage, there are many difficult questions to ask yourself. It may be necessary to pair an experienced educator with a media technician or an enthusiastic and technologically-savvy student. Be creative and open to new teaching partnerships.
Step Four: Strategize Long Term Solutions Once you initiate your first media course, you will immediately notice both the deficiencies and possibilities. Work with staff and administrators to brainstorm ways in which the program can be supported. Make a list of what works and what doesn’t. Meet with key staff to continue the brainstorming process. Do not take on more than you and/or others can reasonably handle. Most importantly, match your expectations to your available resources. Once you establish a basic structure for a Media Arts program, you may wish to research grant opportunities, local donations and/or parent or community support to expand your resources.
Through the Eagle’s Eye
~ Innovative Approaches to Teaching Video and Photography
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