Third formers began the first Saturday Class of their choice. As a huge part of St. Mark’s, the courses provide students with another great eye-opening experience for the students taking the course. Although 3rd formers have been at St. Mark’s for a fairly long time already, they have finally had their first experience of a unique part of St. Mark’s. Since it is their first time experiencing a Saturday Class of their choice, we wanted to share some information and opinions regarding the classes. We were able to receive ratings and feedbacks for the courses through a survey we conducted. More specifically, we collected their ideas on the portions of the class that they benefit most from and areas for improvement.
All of the students that participated in our survey agreed that their Saturday Classes are especially enjoyable. Every participant rated their course a score of at least 6 out of 10. In fact, most 3rd formers who took the survey rated their class an 8 out of 10. On the other hand, the ratings of how challenging their classes were much more diverse. While some students suggested that their courses are not arduous at all, others believed that they were extremely laborious. However, most people concurred on a 7 out of 10 when asked how challenging their course was.
3rd formers who took the survey also believed that there is an aspect of their class that they enjoy. For example, a few of the participants concluded that they love spending time with little kids. One student noted that “playing with the kids and seeing them happy” was the most gratifying reward from this class. Other students expressed that the most enjoyable aspect of their class is watching videos and movies that were related to the class. Responses also voice that they were able to play some project-related games during the course, one student suggested that playing “games that are incredibly engaging” is the most pleasant element of the class. Many responses also states that they love being able to be in the same class as their best friends.
Nonetheless, some students concluded that there could be improvements made to their class. Some students wanted their course to be longer since they feel they do not have enough time to complete their tasks, and the period of class feels short when time is spent on the driving. As opposed to another anonymous student who wants their course to be shorter in length because “Saturday Classes seem too long and difficult for focus near the second half of it”. There are also students who expect to have specific directions for their classes instead of completing things without an itinerary. According to an anonymous 3rd former, she was expecting “more guidance” for the projects. However, most 3rd formers felt that their class was extremely beneficial, and they had nothing to change about their course.
Overall, 3rd formers express through their surveys that their Saturday Classes are quite likable. Most students who participated in the survey are satisfied with their choice of class. Although there could be perfections made to better their class and experience in the course, most students convey that they enjoy their classes. While Saturday Classes do take up a portion of our precious weekend free time, it is a great opportunity provided for the St. Mark’s students to learn more about the world around us and pursue our own interests!
