The students prepare a vernissage / exhibition of what they have produced and invite outside guests, such as other students, parents or people from the local community.
The intention is for the students to gain experience in presenting their production in an authentic context, experience recognition of their efforts and reflect on communication and aesthetics.
Inform the students that they will be creating a stand where they will exhibit and present their work to outside guests at a vernissage. Tell them how it will be done, who the guests will be, and what the requirements are for their exhibition/presentation.
The students plan their exhibition. Using the Vernissage / exhibition method, they come up with ideas on how their products can best be communicated visually (e.g. layout, set-up, explanatory text, audiovisual elements).
Students prepare their exhibition. They create posters, descriptions, or interactive elements.
Students practice using the Vernissage / exhibition method to explain their work briefly and precisely. They can present to each other and give each other feedback.
The students prepare the classroom/exhibition room and their exhibition.
Guests arrive and begin to tour the exhibit. Students welcome them to their booth and make presentations. Guests interact with the students.
Debrief with the class after the guests have left. Students reflect on what it was like to present their work and receive feedback.
Didactic tips
- Show some examples of different types of exhibitions before or after the students’ brainstorming and use the Vernissage / exhibition method to spot tools, etc. Students can also search for exhibitions on the internet that they are researching.
- Involve students in formulating and sending out invitations. For example, let them write personal invitations to specific guests, make posters that advertise the opening or digital announcements.
- Give students different roles. Some can be hosts, others can introduce the guests, and some can document the opening with pictures or video.
- Use the opening as the end of a project to give students a meaningful conclusion and recognition of their work.
- Consider holding the opening at a local library, cultural center, or other public arena to strengthen students’ experience of authenticity.
- If necessary, let students reflect on and discuss what worked well and what they would do differently next time. They can also use the questions and inputs they have received as a basis for further development.