E M B R A C I N G
V I R T U A L
L E A R N I N G
40
Free Spirit Media's Industry Pathways
Cohort Training Program, which
consisted of two streams, was
revamped to be delivered virtually in
response to the COVID 19 pandemic.
The interns met virtually twice a week
for 90 minute long sessions, where they
worked closely with teaching artists for
technical professional development
lessons (i.e. learning editing techniques
for short films) and explored various
creative careers as they built their
portfolios. Whereas, the fellows worked
more independently in their virtual
placements and checked-in three times
throughout the 6 week program with
the teaching artists.
Both streams incorporated weekly
anonymous feedback into ongoing
curriculum structuring, along with daily
drop-in office hours for the young artists
to connect with their teaching artists.
Furthermore, to continue to support
participants on their creative career
journey, the mentors at Free Spirit
Media implemented a new program
called the Career Coaching Call
program. Participants fill out a detailed
questionnaire on what type of coaching
they are looking for in progressing
their creative careers, such as support
with post-secondary applications,
establishing their online portfolio,
setting up their online business, etc.
Then, one-hour calls with a mentor focus
on the specific questions and guidance
the participants are looking for.
Free Spirit Media (Chicago, Illinois, USA)
SKILL DEVELOPMENT
