Testimony from Student of Linda’s First Virtual Seminar

 1/21/2021

Dear Kitty,

I just completed the K*R Twins seminar with Linda Wall. Because of the COVID pandemic, I chose to take the seminar virtually. Although I filled out the routine DAG seminar evaluation form, I would like to give more detailed feedback. Prior to my retirement, I was a Professor of Nursing at the University of Louisiana, Lafayette. The last 12 years of my employment were totally dedicated to virtual education for registered nurses who wished to return to school and earn a Master of Science in Nursing while maintaining their full-time employment. This information is important because I believe that I have the knowledge and experience to objectively evaluate DAG supported virtual seminars.

Linda’s seminar was absolutely outstanding. Prior to the seminar, she mailed the soft-fired greenware, all the supplies along with concise, detailed instructions on how to complete each outfit and the various doll toys. Linda also made a wonderful video demonstrating how to cut the eyes on these tiny dolls. The camera focus was excellent: I was able to see how she measured, marked, and then cut out the eyes. I felt that I was there, looking over her shoulder and seeing everything so clearly. Another video included demonstrations and explanations about painting eyes, eyebrows, nose dots, cheeks, and lips. She uploaded the videos to her iCloud where we were able to access them and follow along with her.

Another video was an introduction to the course where Linda clearly stated the goals we would achieve. She then demonstrated how to make all of the girl doll’s clothing. She also demonstrated how to make the toys that would be used in the dolls’ final presentation.

When the seminar began, there were students in the classroom and two of us were present virtually.  We used a variety of technological formats including: Zoom, Facetime, Email, and Texts. We had real-time visual and auditory communication with the students in the classroom during this time. That was a significant factor in creating an involved learning environment. Throughout the day, Linda did a variety of demonstrations to help students progress through the seminar. Although, we were virtually present, we were always included in these demonstrations. At the end of each day, we were also included in the conversation about what had been accomplished and what to expect next. There was no down time. As I completed each painting assignment, I took a picture of my doll, emailed it to Linda and received almost immediate feedback.

There are many excellent doll artists in our organization, however, excellence doesn’t guarantee an ability to teach. Linda is both. She puts a great deal of time and effort into planning and implementing her seminars. I have learned so much from Linda in the past and was afraid that I would not be able to continue benefitting from her knowledge and artistic skills. I was so impressed with her ability to embrace the use of technology that allowed me to still participate. She made the transition to virtual teaching and it was an honor to be in her seminar.

I believe that Linda has captured the true essence of virtual teaching and her seminar structure would be a valuable model for other teachers who may want to join the virtual community.

Sincerely,

Carolyn Delahoussaye