myblog | Simon Banks | Activity

Simon Banks wrote a new post on the site My journey with PGCert

Thu, 01 Feb 2024 19:44:02 +0000

In the eleventh hour before our focus group commenced, I found myself constructing a survey – a 20-question exploration designed on Microsoft Forms. The intention was to extend the conversation initiated in the f […]

Simon Banks wrote a new post on the site My journey with PGCert

Thu, 01 Feb 2024 17:22:01 +0000

Embarking on this research project has been a fascinating and complex endeavour. I found great fulfilment in designing and facilitating the focus group, where we delved into the multifaceted experiences of […]

Simon Banks wrote a new post on the site My journey with PGCert

Thu, 01 Feb 2024 17:05:00 +0000

My journey through this action research project has been as revelatory as it has been formidable. Balancing my role as a part-time lecturer at the University of Westminster with my PGCert studies at UAL presented […]

Simon Banks wrote a new post on the site My journey with PGCert

Tue, 30 Jan 2024 12:57:27 +0000

As I embarked on my final PGCert module, I faced an initial quandary about the most effective approach to take. My research background was non-existent, and the topic at hand – the experiences of international s […]

Simon Banks wrote a new post on the site My journey with PGCert

Mon, 29 Jan 2024 20:35:00 +0000

My foray into university teaching was untraditional. With a background in media production rather than academia, I found myself in classrooms and studios of LCC in 2020, not due to formal training but to my […]

Simon Banks wrote a new post on the site My journey with PGCert

Mon, 29 Jan 2024 14:40:27 +0000

Navigating the complexities of pursuing my Postgraduate Certificate in Academic Practice at UA while concurrently teaching at the University of Westminster presented a unique set of challenges.

Initially, […]

Simon Banks wrote a new post on the site My journey with PGCert

Fri, 26 Jan 2024 15:33:07 +0000

List of articles, blog posts, podcasts and videos which I have accessed for my research.

READING

Ellis, C. S., & Bochner, A. P. (2006). Analyzing Analytic Autoethnography: An Autopsy. Journal of […]

Simon Banks wrote a new post on the site My journey with PGCert

Fri, 26 Jan 2024 12:52:07 +0000

In the realm of qualitative research, few methods are as personally resonant and academically profound as autoethnography. This was illuminated for me upon reading “Analyzing Analytic Autoethnography: An Autopsy” […]

Simon Banks wrote a new post on the site My journey with PGCert

Fri, 26 Jan 2024 12:09:54 +0000

In my research, I looked for any articles or media on the topic of international students’ experience while studying in the UK. I came across this article and podcast by Ben Chu, BBC Economics editor at […]

Simon Banks wrote a new post on the site My journey with PGCert

Thu, 12 Oct 2023 12:06:00 +0000

The diversity in the classroom, while enriching, brings forth challenges. Cultural backgrounds shape learning styles and interactions within the academic space. Institutions like UAL want (and need) to address […]

Simon Banks changed their profile picture

Wed, 19 Jul 2023 09:03:22 +0000

Simon Banks posted a new activity comment

Wed, 19 Jul 2023 08:53:21 +0000

Your reflections on the inevitability of vulnerability in life, regardless of wealth or status, are profound and poignant. The sentiment to support and include those less fortunate is a necessary reminder in our fast-paced, technology-driven world. Your empathy for those struggling with advancements, particularly in technology, echoes a broader…Read more

In reply to - Tonia Vassell wrote a new post on the site Tonia's PGcert I read an amazing statement in the Terms of reference Shades of Noir. This is such a true statement, no matter how much money we have in the world […]

Simon Banks posted a new activity comment

Wed, 19 Jul 2023 08:51:25 +0000

Your blog post thoroughly explores the intersection of religion and higher education in the UK. I appreciate your balanced approach to discussing this sensitive issue, acknowledging the importance of faith for many students while recognising the need for institutions to be inclusive and secular.

Your reflections on the role of faith in shaping…Read more

In reply to - Tonia Vassell wrote a new post on the site Tonia's PGcert ‘Religion in Britain: Challenges for Higher Education. Religion and knowledge of religion in UK universities I have learnt that there is still a great n […]

Simon Banks posted a new activity comment

Wed, 19 Jul 2023 08:47:22 +0000

This is a beautifully introspective blog post that displays a sincere desire to understand and respect the diverse aspects of faith, particularly within the realm of higher education. You’ve made an engaging examination of faith as a public good and as a constituent of individual identities. I was particularly moved by your personal experiences…Read more

In reply to - Susana Guinau Molina wrote a new post on the site Guinau's blog My low level of understanding of this topic led me to delay preparation of this post. However, I have found that this piece of work has help […]

Simon Banks posted a new activity comment

Mon, 03 Jul 2023 14:45:58 +0000

Your blog entry beautifully encapsulates your reflective journey from a childhood spent in a homogenous neighbourhood to your current role as an educator, striving to foster an inclusive, diverse environment in your classes. Your early experiences with multiculturalism, like your interaction with Mustafa, offer a unique perspective on the notion…Read more

In reply to - Susana Guinau Molina wrote a new post on the site Guinau's blog As a child in the 80’s, I was raised in a working middle class neighbourhood where only one color of skin was the norm. I didn’t think that was unus […]

Simon Banks posted a new activity comment

Mon, 03 Jul 2023 14:45:58 +0000

Your thoughtful blog post sheds light on a crucial but often overlooked topic – the experiences of students with non-visible disabilities. Your personal connection to the subject lends authenticity and a sense of urgency to your words. You highlight the importance of universities providing adequate and comprehensive support for students with d…Read more

In reply to - Susana Guinau Molina wrote a new post on the site Guinau's blog A person very close to me has a non visible disability. I wish years ago, when she studied at the University of Barcelona, she could have had the […]

Simon Banks posted a new activity comment

Sat, 01 Jul 2023 15:40:33 +0000

Your thoughtful engagement with the readings presented in the blog is commendable. Your understanding of the broader societal constructs mirrored in the classroom and the acknowledgment of the existing power imbalance underscore the necessity of creating an equitable learning space.

In reply to - Sebastian May wrote a new post on the site Sebastian May Image by Herson Rodriguez on Unsplash Exploring ‘Retention and attainment in the disciplines: Art and Design’, I was surprised to read that while UAL […]

Simon Banks posted a new activity comment

Sat, 01 Jul 2023 15:33:30 +0000

Your heartfelt comment brings to life the difficult realities faced by people with non-visible disabilities and the often unseen struggles they undergo. The personal story about your mother is both moving and powerful, providing a human face to these challenges.

In reply to - Tonia Vassell wrote a new post on the site Tonia's PGcert Reading this pdf was relatable, it puts me through the mind of what my mum is currently going through now with her health condition. My mum started working […]

Simon Banks posted a new activity comment

Sat, 01 Jul 2023 15:10:33 +0000

Your reflective commentary is deeply insightful, demonstrates an active commitment to challenge systemic inequalities and promote diversity and inclusion in the classroom setting. It is commendable how you not only recognise your privilege as a white British person, but are proactive in using it to address the structures of power and oppression in…Read more

In reply to - Tonicha Child wrote a new post on the site Tonicha's PgCert The Problem We All Live With (1964) painting by Norman Rockwell As a white British person, I recognise the history and ongoing impact of co […]

Simon Banks wrote a new post on the site My journey with PGCert

Sat, 01 Jul 2023 15:04:45 +0000

As a white, British, middle-class male, I acknowledge that my life has been shaped by privileges that many do not enjoy, affording me a perspective that is, in many ways, limited. Recognising this, I am committed […]

Simon Banks posted a new activity comment

Tue, 27 Jun 2023 00:55:40 +0000

You rightly point out that we must proactively engage with this issue to foster a more equitable and supportive environment for all. The need for education and awareness regarding non-visible disabilities is of paramount importance and cannot be overstated. Your personal experience illuminates the tedious process of obtaining disability support,…Read more

In reply to - Tonia Vassell wrote a new post on the site Tonia's PGcert Inclusive practices, a topic that needs to be explored, one that shouldn’t be over looked. How will you know if your being inclusive as a lecture if y […]

Simon Banks posted a new activity comment

Wed, 14 Jun 2023 15:28:01 +0000

Thank you for sharing your personal story. Your insights are a thought-provoking exploration of the ways in which design education can and should engage with the issues of diversity, inclusivity, and representation. Its blend of personal experience, academic insight, and practical suggestions make it a valuable resource for educators, designers,…Read more

In reply to - Tonicha Child wrote a new post on the site Tonicha's PgCert ‘Healing’ From “Mad Room,” 2016. Credit: Courtesy of Gloria Swain Positionality Statement: As someone with an invisible disability, I recognise the […]

Simon Banks posted a new activity comment

Wed, 14 Jun 2023 15:27:59 +0000

Your reflections on positionality and its impact on how we approach our work, as well as the engagement with complex issues of religion and inclusivity in higher education, are thought-provoking.
You reveal a profound commitment to understanding the complex intersection of religion and education and to creating an inclusive environment in your…Read more

In reply to - Tonicha Child wrote a new post on the site Tonicha's PgCert Image Credit: Ayham Jabr Leap Of Faith (2017) Positionality Statement: As someone who is not religious, I acknowledge that my worldview is shaped by […]

Simon Banks posted a new activity comment

Wed, 14 Jun 2023 12:26:41 +0000

The multifaceted exploration of religion as practice, community, and belief in Appiah’s lecture highlights the importance of individual interpretation and expression. Indeed, recognising students’ unique experiences and faith identities can greatly enrich teaching practices. The link to the ‘Religion in Britain’ stimulus paper further reinforces…Read more

In reply to - Sebastian May wrote a new post on the site Sebastian May Image by Rodion Kutsaiev on Unsplash Kwame Anthony Appiah’s lecture resonates with me in the way he assigns religion into areas of practice, comm […]

Simon Banks posted a new activity comment

Wed, 14 Jun 2023 12:25:40 +0000

Your curiosity about empowering students through storytelling techniques aligns perfectly with the essence of the blog, exploring the unique narrative each student carries. I am excited by your commitment to helping students navigate their positions within the world and articulate this through their work. Your blog is a testament to the potential…Read more

In reply to - Sebastian May wrote a new post on the site Sebastian May Image by ilgmyzin on Unsplash Christine Sun Kim’s physical exploration of sound deeply resonates with my own desire to inspire students to inve […]

Simon Banks wrote a new post on the site My journey with PGCert

Thu, 01 Jun 2023 10:07:00 +0000

Despite being a non-practising born again Christian, I remain fascinated by the topic of Faith. I’ve come to distinguish faith and religion; with faith being my individual belief or trust that doesn’t require […]

Simon Banks wrote a new post on the site My journey with PGCert

Wed, 24 May 2023 19:23:48 +0000

As a professional practitioner in the TV sector and as an associate lecturer at LCC, delving into these resources has taken me on an enlightening voyage of discovery, a journey amplified by my minimal […]

Simon Banks wrote a new post on the site My journey with PGCert

Mon, 22 May 2023 16:06:18 +0000

As a 58-year-old white male from a middle-class background, I recognize that my positionality significantly influences my perspectives and experiences. My identity as a heterosexual Christian man and my […]

Simon Banks posted a new activity comment

Thu, 23 Mar 2023 09:26:53 +0000

Thank you for sharing your thoughts on Allan Davies’ article about learning outcomes and assessment criteria in art and design. It’s great to hear that the article has helped you understand the importance of clear and unambiguous learning outcomes and assessment criteria, and how they relate to the student experience.
I completely agree with your…Read more

In reply to - Susana Guinau Molina wrote a new post on the site Guinau's blog The article from Allan Davies has helped me to understand better the background behind Learning Outcomes and Assessment criteria. How the learning […]

Simon Banks wrote a new post on the site My journey with PGCert

Fri, 10 Mar 2023 16:07:53 +0000

A university degree is often considered a prerequisite for success in today’s world. However, there is often a debate about whether the value of a university degree lies in preparing individuals for the industry […]

Simon Banks wrote a new post on the site My journey with PGCert

Fri, 10 Mar 2023 14:41:53 +0000

My review of the paper “Improving teaching: Enhancing ways of being university teachers’ writtien by Gloria Dall’Alba, University of Queensland, Brisbane.

“I regard a conventional student-teacher model as ina […]

Simon Banks wrote a new post on the site My journey with PGCert

Thu, 02 Mar 2023 16:26:39 +0000

As a Filmmaking professional, I have been teaching the subject to MA Television students for quite some time now. However, I recently faced a unique challenge when I was asked to condense my 3-hour session into […]

Simon Banks wrote a new post on the site My journey with PGCert

Thu, 02 Feb 2023 20:53:30 +0000

This is my assessment of the article wriiten by Allan Davies – Learning outcomes and assessment criteria in art and design. What’s the recurring problem?

The article discusses the recurring problem of d […]

Simon Banks wrote a new post on the site My journey with PGCert

Mon, 30 Jan 2023 16:55:00 +0000

As a professional practitioner with over 30 years of experience in the video production industry, I must acknowledge that I may have a conscious bias when teaching students. While having certain ways and ideas of […]

Simon Banks wrote a new post on the site My journey with PGCert

Wed, 25 Jan 2023 11:45:18 +0000

For an introduction for the PG Cert course I was asked what is Padagogy and what does it mean to me?

I decided to create a video for my talk and my discovery of the term Padagogy.

Pedagogy is the theory and […]