Critical Friendship in flesh

The concept of critical friendship, an innovative approach to collaboration and feedback, significantly resonated with me. This method involves a trusted individual who poses challenging questions and provides alternative perspectives offering constructive criticism as a friend. A critical friend dedicates time to comprehensively understanding the context and objectives of the work presented, advocating for its success (Costa & Kallick, 1993). As time becomes an increasingly valuable resource, investing in cultivating critical friendships and a slower pace is essential.

I instinctively applied this methodology at the National Film and Television School (NFTS). Although NFTS courses have been traditionally practice-based rather than academic, the growing trend for academic qualifications led to recognition from the Royal College of Art in 2002. Throughout my tenure at NFTS as an assistant to student films, as a student, and then eventually as a second-year primary teacher, I noticed that critical friendship was inherent in the institution’s approach. The unique, politically minded staff encouraged individualized learning experiences rather than predetermined outcomes, fostering an environment for students to develop novel ideologies. No grades or “real” learning outcomes are involved besides the tools provided.

The one-to-one nature of the course at NFTS allowed for personalized tutorials and sessions that would not be approved in institutions like the University of the Arts London (UAL). The teaching methodology was perhaps based on an enhanced version of critical friendship, emphasizing the active exchange of ideas and information rather than the passive delivery of predefined content. This approach aligns with Hatton and Smith’s (1995) assertion that engaging with another person in a manner that encourages dialogue, questioning, and confrontation results in a more enriching learning experience.

Hatton, N., & Smith, D. (1995). Reflection in teacher education: Towards definition and implementation. Teaching and teacher education, 11(1), 33-49.

Costa, A. L., & Kallick, B. (1993). Through the Lens of a Critical Friend. Educational Leadership, 51, 49-51.

Image: Dina Hecht 1972 in- A Stuttering Start A look back at the first few months of the National Film and Television School – by Roger Crittenden.

Details

• Title: Dina Hecht
• Creator: NFTS
• Date Created: 1972
• Location Created: Beaconsfield, Buckinghamshire
• Type: Photograph