CM 315 - Development of Cinema - FA01
Classroom Observation by Judi Bugniazet, Chair
Montreat College Rank and Tenure Committee
1. Were the course content and materials presented appropriate?
Very appropriate.  8 film clips were shown and the topic was animation.
2. Were the materials clearly presented?
Clearly and well presented.
3. Was there evidence of thorough preparation by the professor?
The professor had a powerpoint presentation that was very clearly prepared, as well as lecture.
4. Did the professor elicit student interaction?
There was tremendous student interaction.  The students were obviously interested in the class, the material and subject.
5. Did the professor display enthusiasm for the subject?
Brian is very enthusiastic and this is an area he's obviously an expert in.
6. Was student interest evident?
Very evident.  The students obviously enjoyed the class.
7. Was use of chalkboard, audio-visuals, and/or handouts effective?
Very effective, well done, interesting.
8. Was an appropriate amount of material covered?
A tremendous amount was covered in 1 1/2 hours and the class was so interesting that the time flew by.
9. What aspects were especially effective and what aspects need improvement?  Please describe the faculty member's teaching effectiveness, noting strengths and weaknesses, based on classroom observation.
     This was a small class of seven.  The class started with a quiz.  After the requisite groans, the students settled down and took the quiz.  The papers were then handed around and students graded the quizzes.  The answers were provided and an in-depth discussion ensued.  I have never seen a more entertaining quiz.  The students were actually enjoying the discussion and the quiz itself.  The interaction between teacher and student was obviously one of mutual respect and enjoyment.
     The lecture part of the class was about animation.  There was a tremendous amount of student participation.  The students were obviously very interested in the topic and Brian's answers to their questions.  It was also obvious that Brian has a very pervasive knowledge of the material.  The lecture itself was a combination of the use of the blackboard, powerpoint, film clips and straight lecture.  There was an excellent use of media, and that is to be expected in a film class.  During the 1 1/2 hours that I was there (out of a 3 hour class), Brian showed 8 short animated films as well as explaining the uniqueness of each one.  It was a very interesting class, much more interesting than the film class I took in college.
     I was very impressed with Brian and the class and sincerely enjoyed the observation experience.
10. What suggestions can you offer?
It was one of the best lectures/classes I've ever seen.  No suggestions at all.
  

--- Judi Bugniazet, 09/27/01