THESIS & RESEARCH
EMBRACING POSITIVITY: Using the Power of Positivity to Enhance Design Classroom Critiques to Encourage Students to Feel Empowered as Artists
Master of Fine Arts Thesis by Angela Keeler Reeves
Edited by Dr. Amanda T. Smith
LIBERTY UNIVERSITY ONLINE
SCHOOL OF COMMUNICATION AND THE ARTS
DEPARTMENT OF STUDIO AND DIGITAL ARTS
SPRING 2024
The Problem
Research Problem
Many design students struggle with understanding the purpose and the importance of feedback and critique in the design classroom, resulting in a perceived attack on their character and skills, which may lead to a detrimental effect on their mental health.
Research & Findings
Research
The following research is two-pronged and shows the need to address the current critique format to make sure that this generation of students understands the need for critique and assessment in the graphic design classroom, while effectively helping those students maintain their self-esteem and allowing them to thrive without taking a hit to their mental health. The first set of research shows multiple different styles and techniques when it comes to critique in various settings, such as in the classroom or with an employer. The second set of research branches into the mental health of students at the university level.
Findings
If we structure design critique pedagogy to involve an aspect that realizes and takes into account the mental well-being of our students, extend the education process when it comes to the explanation for the critique, and utilize different support materials for educators to help them combat issues in this studio based critique environment, we can help create more well-rounded design students and effectively help them to be stronger professionals down the line.
My Process
1
Visual Research & Brainstorming
The first step in the process of designing deliverables that would aid in the classroom environment was through visual research and brainstorming. The visual research focused on web based searches utilizing Google, Pinterest and Behance while the brainstorming was hand written and entailed listing ideas or utilizing mind mapping based on word association.
3
Design Deliverables
Once the rough draft sketches were done, the design could then be opened in Adobe Illustrator, Photoshop or InDesign, depending on need. The designs would go through several proofing stages with myself as well with my thesis committee chair and members. After a couple of revisions, the design deliverables were ready to be mocked up and shown off.
2
Sketching Process
Once the visual research and brainstorming was complete, then it was time for sketching. This started as approx. 30 thumbnail sketches per piece and would then be narrowed down to four larger rough draft sketches. The rough draft sketches could then be scanned and put into the software of choice (ie. Adobe Illustrator).
Final Work
I would like to extend a heartfelt thank you to my amazing family and my thesis committee professors who have been my rock and support system throughout the last eight months as I worked tirelessly on my thesis and design deliverables. Your encouragement, guidance, and unwavering belief in me have been the driving force behind my success. I am truly grateful for all the time, love, and patience you have given me during this challenging and rewarding journey. I could not have accomplished this without your support, and I am forever grateful for everything you have done for me. Thank you from the bottom of my heart.