Methods of Instruction

     We sincerely believe that there is no better teacher than experience. Our method of instruction involves lectures and demonstrations, but concentrates on a carefully planned and designed series of bench work projects. These are designed to impart a working knowledge of the most useful and practical techniques that the student will need in actual work experience. The techniques learned in one project aid the student in mastering other more complex techniques in the next. The goal of the curriculum is to ingrain a repertoire of techniques which can be adapted and combined to better solve the problems they will encounter in the marketplace. Challenge and practice creates proficient craftsmen.

 

       Each project will be thoroughly explained to the class as a whole followed by a demonstration. After the lecture and demonstration, if any individual student needs assistance or further explanation it will be available. Many of the demonstrations will be videotaped in color under high magnification for ease of review.

 

      Observation and experimentation augment the learning process. To that end, the Academy maintains a retail store, custom jewelry and repair shop, forge and sculpture studio in conjunction to the School so students may see in practice what they are learning. Many demonstrations relate to techniques involved with work in progress. It is expected that students try the demonstrated techniques in addition to assigned projects. Thus, students generate experience and problem solving skills through doing.

 

      Our grading system is very simple; either a project is done properly or it isn't. Students will get a pass or fail for their try on that particular project. If they wish to try again before going on to the next project, they will be encouraged to do so. When the project is completed successfully they will receive a passing mark. Time taken to complete a project while learning a new technique, quality of finish, and successful use of techniques involved are criteria recorded for future information requests from prospective employers. However, the students' grades on the projects are based solely on whether or not they completed them satisfactorily. A student must complete all the projects successfully before being awarded their diploma. Our records on students' grades and general progress will be available for their information so they can be constantly aware of what areas need more effort and what areas they have mastered. Credit for previous training or experience will be given once a student demonstrates they have a working knowledge of the techniques in question.

 

     Students work at their own pace according to individual ability. We do not as a matter of policy expel students for unsatisfactory progress and would not deny them re-entry if they wished to try again after withdrawing from the School.