THE PHOTOGRAPHIC EYE

part 2 Planning the Course
Naturally, how you structure your course will vary according to resources,
class schedule and other factors. The course on which this text is based meets
once a week. Each class begins with an explanation and discussion of the
next assignment, followed by a critique session. Students are expected to
complete the assignment, including darkroom work, on their own.
Early in the fall, give each student a list of all assignments for the year.
This offers students a sense of the structure of the course and enables them
to keep an eye out for future assignment subjects. Naturally, some flexibility
is maintained to accommodate unforeseen opportunities or obstacles,
such as an exceptionally photogenic snowfall or a long stretch of rainy
weather that forces students to work indoors.
Prior to each class session, relevant samples are displayed to stimulate
ideas. (As mentioned earlier, a simple rack consisting of wooden strips
attached to the walls would facilitate this and the critique sessions.) Once
the class is in session, the teacher summarizes the exercise, covers any logistical
details (field trip schedule, for example, if one is planned for the assignment),
discusses the displayed samples, and notes any "idiosyncrasies"
(lighting considerations, possible locations, potential problem areas, special
equipment, etc.).
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