Erminia: I've taught in a few programs (tho without MFA) and do it well. I
also know that some of my colleagues with MFAs do it abysmally badly. The
MFA is a very poor measure of teaching ability.
I'm afraid the only way to learn the classroom ability of an applicant is
to hire him/her and see how she/he does. So the best course of action would
be to hire the best writer who applies and hope for the best. One can
always rectify the mistake if it is one at the end of the term.
Mark
At 06:09 PM 5/7/2003 +0100, Erminia Passannanti wrote:
>Mark, I repeat,
>
>I'm not saying that all non-degree holding writers are incapable of being
>excellent teachers. Some are, and will be. However, when committees are
>deciding how best to allocate teaching funds, those with degrees stand out
>as having proved their ability, through coursework, to articulate academic
>and intellectual messages to a classroom. Whereas there is no way to
>easily identify those non-degree holding poets who have, in addition to an
>aptitude in poetry, an ability to clearly and articulately convey
>knowledge about poetics in a classroom setting.
>
>If you yourself could propose some way of measuring the potential of non-
>academic poets in the classroom, please do so, as I will admit that I see
>the current system as adequate, but somewhat flawed. However, in leui of
>a proposal which might help measure the classroom aptitude of non-degree
>holders, I see no alternative to the current system.
>Yes, the Academy wants the Creative [as Visiting Writers} but mainly wants
>them to be also Tutor of Creative Writing therefore officially qualified
>and appointed educational 'officers'. I see no way out in this direction.
>
>Anyhow, the recent letter posted by Sue Thomas, inviting all of those with
>degrees or equivalents to apply for these fund seems a good way out. I am
>sure the panel will have careful consideration of the teaching qualities,
>professional expertise, knowledge of literary tradition and excellent
>communication skills, required to interact with a community of people,
>learners, whatever the subject be.
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