2012 Evaluation at Makiki Dojo, Honolulu

This past Saturday and today, Monday, Makiki Dojo had its annual evaluation. The evaluation format is not the typical format in which students wait for their turns and perform in front of the instructors. The evaluation is conducted in the usual practice format. I have my reasons for this and will everything there are pros and cons. Junin Toiro, Ten people. ten colors.
I felt that using a standard evaluation format does not necessarily reflect the "true" student. I observe them throughout the year and so I have a definite and clear idea what they need to work on. Some are capable of miraculously "shape up" on the day of the evaluation, but returns to the true self afterwards. (^^) So to me, the eval becomes just a "show" with no substance.
Sure enough. students will exhibit the same behaviors when placed in the usual practice format, despite knowing it is an evaluation. Old habits don't die???
One of the many parts of the eval is leadership. Senpais are assigned Kouhais and instructed to help them with some kihon waza. It is a good way to observe the quality of their wazas, but more important whether they exhibit the proper attitude and willingness to help their kouhais. In addition they also experience the challenges of having to "teach". Gahahahaha It is always easier to follow than lead.