Email Survey

I almost have one lesson completely planned out. I am just trying to decide what to include in each lesson or unit.

My thought was to include:

• video tutorial
• instructional ppt
• basic instructions document (for students)
• lesson plan with Standards run down
• grade sheet and needed files folder

I think that this would be a good place to start. I could always add more if needed. I want to keep things very simple. And I don't want to have to change it from the way that I use it to the way that it will be set up when I sell it.

I am a little stuck on what standards to use. There are National art standards, but are these the ones that people use?  I know that Kansas has their own set of standards. If people use their state's visual art standards instead...I could never align my lessons with every state! 

So I am thinking that I will email other art teachers and perhaps principals to see what they align to or what they would like lessons to be aligned to. And perhaps some other questions, too. I just need to figure out how to set up the email so that people will, first open the email and read it, then respond to it. Do I send them to a survey service, or would they be more likely to respond to my email if I ask the questions right in the body of the email?

Perhaps I could do both...do a couple test groups... That could be good, maybe 10 of each to start, and do the top 20 schools listed in the Kansas Schools Directory. I like it. 

Now, what questions to ask, and how to set up the email:

Subject Line: Digital Art Video Tutorials and Lesson Plans

As an educator that values art in schools, I am wondering if you would take a minute to answer a couple questions. I am an Art Teacher who is trying to find an easier and more effective way to teach my students digital arts (both Graphic Design and Photography).

This year I am testing the "Flipped Classroom" technique. Requiring my students to watch instructional videos that I prepared for them instead of the traditional teaching method; standing at the front of the room demonstrating. This allows them to work at their own pace and allows me to answer specific questions for those who are struggling and engage more with individual students.

I have found that I love this method of teaching. So, I am reaching out to see if other art teachers might benefit from a set of digital arts lesson plans with video tutorials which would allow any teacher to facilitate these classes (including Photoshop and Illustrator).

I have prepared a short survey and would appreciate it if you could take a minute to answer my questions. Your responses will help me understand what needs to be included in my lesson plans as I move forward.

1. Does your school currently teach any digital art classes? (Graphic Design or Photography)
2. If not, would you consider adding a Digital Art class to your schedule if you had a set of easy to follow lesson plans and video tutorials at your disposal?
3. What standards are your visual arts teachers supposed to follow? (Example: Kansas or National  Standards)
4. What would you expect to be included in a lesson plan packet containing digital art training?

Thank you for participating,

Chelsea Lewis

Art Instructor

I think that ought to be good. Now I just need to send it out and see what happens!