Rammork-Campaign Questions For Those Running for the new Monarchy

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Kenshin, I sure do have a plan. I think that training better judges is not really the main issue. I think our judging system is what is at fault. We could train 20 players to be perfect judges, and the first ice storm can render those judges useless at home trapped. So how do we improve our judging system. First will be a new judging system that will help even the novice judge do a good job. The first part is a judging sheet that judges an item on the following:
DOCUMENTATION (5 points.)
Give score based on the following:
• A minimum of the Kingdom entry sheet is filled out.
• Materials used in the project
• Skills (necessary to complete the project)
• Methods and Tools used during the process
•Any research (country, period of origin, typical characteristics, use in period, etc.) .), visual references (books, portraits, etc.) from reliable sources

COMPLEXITY (5 points) Rank the ambition of the entry, not the workmanship based on the following:
• Number and complexity of pattern pieces and designs used
• Difficulty of materials handling involved in a project;
• Scale of project - amount of detail related to size, use of original patterns for construction or decoration;
• Amount of time involved, including research, material preparation
• Number of steps, kinds of tools used.
• Pattern use

WORKMANSHIP (3-30 points. ) Rank the quality of execution and success of the entry on a scale 1-10 then times by 3, based on the following:
• Effective use of materials and tools
• Attention to details, neatness, finishing touches
• Appropriate application of designs, proportions
• Mastery of style and practice
• Choice of material and handling techniques
• Execution of techniques (construction, decoration, etc.): neatness, finishing, etc.
• Form/design: aesthetics, pattern development, decorative motifs, etc.
• Function/durability: Does it do what it should? Will it hold up in use?
AESTHETIC VALUE (1-10 points) Evaluate the work as a whole, rating the aesthetic effect and appeal beyond the mere technical proficiency. Consider how you react to the entry (intuitive response) and other items not previously addressed.
Next will be information sheets on each category giving a description of what the item should be.

“Rammork- We are the only ( as far as I know ) Kingdom that uses a 55 category system. I've been working with a group on A&S and the biggest complaint I hear is our system is confusing, overkill and way too much to be used for A&S. What would you do to improve on that system if anything?”

Kage, I agree that the 55 category system is a bit cumbersome. But I also think it is a wonderful tool. My plan is to follow along with what Roslyn attempted for Dragon Master and only use the main categories (ie Jewelry, Active construction, etc) I will also be limiting the number of entries to five. Looking for quality not quantity. In regards to the 55 category system and quals I find it to be a must since it enables the candidate a broader selection to meet the required number of entries across the needed cultural categories.

“Rammork: There have been several instances where judges have said that they gave a bad score to someone on purpose, just because they knew the person that made it. How would you handle an event like this?”

Saigiori: The first thing is to ensure the judges are separate from the entry area. This will only eliminate a small portion of the problem. The next would to be find judges that are honest and impartial. But once again this is not that easy. The last would be to make the right call. I would remove that Judges scores, inform all participants, and inform the judges. If this happened during the judging process, I would find a new judge and have the new judge redo the entries. I would then inform that judge I am recommending the Monarch take action for disciplinary action. As this is not the behavior of a good member of Amtgard. If you can not judge fairly then say no when being asked to judge.