Task 3d: Critical questions and issues that emerge.

Task 3d: Critical Questions and Issues that Emerge

This task is all about reflection and trying to digest our thoughts on the three previous tasks:

1. Current Networks
2. Theories Relating to Networks
3. Information Sources   

Returning to Reader 2 we have to reflect on the tasks and experiences within this part of the Module, in order to truly learn from them. I intend to critically analyse my own tasks and also comment on the tasks of others; this will prompt critical thinking and make me question my own thinking in comparison to the opinions of others.  The question is: will this communication with others shift my own thinking, planning or practice??

Critical Reflection (Module 1 - Part 3)

The nature of my personality means that Networking has always been instinctive within me.  I have a naturally inquisitive nature and a desire to succeed, therefore I find myself networking without really having to make a conscious effort to do so.  As with most performers, I always strive to be the best I can be and am constantly looking for ways that I can improve and maximise my chances; the three tasks within Part 3 have provided new ways to look at networking and an opportunity for me to really analyse my own current Professional Networking. 

Task 3a enabled me to clearly see the full range of my current networks.  It definitely made me realise that since I have lived outside of London I have defintiely taken a backseat when it comes to Networking, particularly 'People Networks'.  When living in London I would say that Networking was my main focus; constantly meeting with people, taking class, searching for auditions, etc. Since gaining employment my Networks have definitely seen a shift.  I still very much utilise 'Information Networks' and use the web frequently to network in this way.  When performers gain employment it is like a weight has been lifted and I guess the barrier comes down and you start to relax a little. With me, I relaxed my People Networks, as their need was not great at that specific time.  It is true to say that the size and strength of your network will change depending on how much energy you invest into it and this will vary dependant on your sitaution at the time and your need for that particular network.  In hindsight I wish I had placed more energy into my networks whilst in employment, as you never know when you are going to need to rely on them in the future, especially in an industry such as ours where you are constantly up and down.  It is always good to keep the flame alight and maybe I let it burn out a little too much. Perhaps I got too comfortable, however unfortunately this industry does not allow for that. On a positive note, I know that I have the ability to form and maintain strong networks and with strong engagement and energy on my part I can hopefully rebuild them to their former state.

Although I now have a better understanding of the theories/concepts featured in Reader 3 - do I actually think that they have changed the way in which I will approach networking?

In the handbook we are advised to give each theory the time to settle and to not dismiss any based on first judgement.  I can definitely see how each has relevance to Professional and Personal Networking but one issue that emerged for me was....'Are the theories simply things that happen automatically as a result of networking?'

In one view, yes, in successful networking theories such as 'cooperation' and 'affiliation' will naturally be taking place, however the theories have provided me with key concepts that need to be established in order for the network to be successful.  I am now aware that different levels of cooperation can be used and to be aware of when 'tit for tat' is being used or when someone is cooperating less and exploiting the other member.  The theories on affiliation have made me aware that people have different needs re affiliation: Phil Carrol made an interesting point...'It is quality not quantity'.  The quality of the relationships within the network are surely more important than the sheer number of 'relationships'.  The ideas on 'Communities of Practice' made me realise that being part of a Network brings so much more than just information and knowledge.  Being a member of this community gives you an identity and can help to shape who you are as a Professional.  I had never thought of a Network provding these invaluable things and it is something which I hope to focus on more when it comes to future Professional Networking.  I believe the gains from this are something which will really help me to develop and grow within my Professional Practice.  The theories defintiely enhanced the importance of the concepts within a Professional Network, but I wouldn't say that they completely changed my way of thinking in terms of Networking.  They definitely provided new ways to look at Networking and ways in which I could improve my own Networking skills.

Task 3c was very interesting for me, as I had always presumed that 'People Networks' were my main source when it came to Professional Networking, however my 'Information Networks' are just as prominently featured within my own Networking.  Linking back to the ideas on 'Connectivism' from the reader, technology has dramatically altered our learning style and in terms of 'Information Sources' it has opened us up to a huge range of resources. I would go as far as saying that the limits are endless when it comes to gaining new information.  The 'half life of knowledge' was a term I found extremely interesting, if not a little shocking, the idea that knowledge is doubling every 18 months and that half of what is known today was not known 10 years ago.  Due to the phenomenom that is technology we can gain as much information as we want; if only we had enough hours in the day to do so!! When I brainstormed all of my Information Sources I was actually quite pleased with how I utilise different sources in order to gain knowledge.  As I have mentioned previously, I am the kind of person that likes to make things happen rather than wait for them to come to me, so again it is intuitive for me to find sources of knowledge on my own i.e. without the help of 'People Networks'.  Even though I am perhaps a little 'out of the loop' as I have not been on the audition circuit, I still do network a great deal in my spare time, it is just that I tend to use the phenomenom of technology to do so, rather than contact/communication with fellow professionals. 

I have to ask the question....'Am I pleased with my current Professional Networking?' 'How can I improve them?'

For my current need....Yes! I know from past experience that I have a great ability to network , however at present I have become comfortable and have negleted certain networks as I have not needed them.  It is also difficult for me at the moment because I am in a transition period; I am starting to shift from the performing world to the teaching world.  Although many of my previous networks can be utilised in some way, I definitely need to focus on developing some 'teaching based networks' that will help me when I make the transition to teacher rather than performer.  In order for this to be successful, I have to put the energy and effort in and engage fully in my new 'Communities of Practice'. 

I would also like to try out 'Twitter' and see how the argument 'quality over quantity' fairs then!

I am a very focused individual and my 'Information Sources' have always remained - technology has made it so that location, current situation etc. does not affect the ability to maintain 'Information Networks'. 

I am still unsure on the idea of using Social Media Sites (such as facebook) as a 'Professional Networking' tool.  I would like to read other people's views on this and see if their opinions can shift my own thoughts on this.  I do believe it can be great to network in 'informal' situations with old colleagues/friends, but not in a 'formal' way for example with potential future employers. 

This leads on nicely to the next question...'Does sharing ideas and communicating with others shift your thinking, planning or practice?'

Well, perhaps my opinions on Social Media Sites will be altered after communicating with others??

Communicating with others and sharing ideas makes me question more my own thinking and the truth within it.  Rather than just taking something as truth, it makes me stop and ask why I think this as true, is there another way to view this? I am open to other opinions and defintiely take other views/opinions on board.  The ideas and opinions of others are there to analyse and you can decide whether they can benefit your Professional Practice.  They don't need to completely change your own opinion, but can often provide a different way of looking at something, and this inevitably makes you learn more. 

Critical Reflection is ultimate in helping you to decide what really matters and how to move forward.  For me, it isn't until I really analyse/evaluate a situation that I realise the value and importance within it.  For me the process of Critically Reflecting provides me with a clear head space, that is then capable of making a decision.  The Journal has been a great tool for this; my method of Journal writing is to go through the events of the day, evaluate it by saying how I felt, what was good/bad etc.. then I finish the entry by writing what I want to achieve from the next day.  The reflection on the events of the day enable me to see my future aims and helps me to set a clear route forward. An example of this is that I now try to do all of my work in the morning: my evaluations found that I always have a much more productive day when working in the morning, so I try to apply this to my everyday events.  This seems such a small thing but has really helped my productivity, which is essential in today's busy society. 

So to conclude, do I feel differently about networking? The tasks have definitely given me a clear outline on the current state of my Professional Networks and the direction in which I need to go in.  The theories have provided concepts which will enable successful networking and ideas that can help me to utilise and develop my own Professional Networking.  This part of the Module has definitely made me realise the importance of networking within my Professional Practice - we need that support barrier around us, regardless of which area of the industry you are in.  I think it is time to put the effort in, engage and try to develop new networks that will help me with future career aspirations....let the networking begin!!

Task 3C: Sources of Information

Task 3c: Sources of Information

With this task we are exploring 'Information Networks' rather than 'People Networks'.  'People Networks' are a huge part of my Professional Networking and as I mentioned in Task 3a my ideal network is made up of contacts that I have acquired throughout my Professional Development.  This type of network is hard to maintain as it is vital to keep the links strong between you and your affiliates, but I believe if you put the effort and energy in and keep the links strong then this type of network is often the most reliable and benefitial.

On first reading the brief for the task, I was unsure what exactly was meant by 'Information Networks' and I have come to the conclusion that it is an information source that you regularly use, that helps you to develop and grow as a Professional.  Just as 'People Networks' are tools and sources of help for you within your Professional life, 'Information Networks' are sources/tools that provide us with Information that is vital within our Professional Practice. 

Brainstorm of 'Information Sources'

• Industry Newspapers/Magazines e.g 'The Stage', 'Musical Stages' etc.
• Spotlight - online CV Directory
• Casting Sites - Casting Call Pro, Starnow etc.
• Institution Resources - i.e College library - sheet music, plays
• Contacts book
• Information boards - e.g. notice board at studio
• Theatre Websites - 'The Stage Online', 'Whats on Stage', Individual Show Websites
• Facebook
• You Tube
• Download Sites - e.g. Sheet Music Direct
• My personal resources - plays, dance syllabus', sheet music
• DVD's and CD's
• Dance Classes/Workshops -  (is this classed as a people network? The networking that goes on is obviously a 'people network' but the actual information source is the lesson itself and the new technique (information) you are gaining from the lesson)
• Visiting the theatre - the same point from above arises.  The Information source is the show itself, however the networking would be talking to the cast etc. which is clearly 'People Network'. 

Obviously, in today's society web based information sources are the most common but I was actually surprised by how many non web based information sources that came to mind. 

My 5 most Important 'Sources of Information'

Casting Sites are one of my main sources of information.  I constantly check sites such as 'Casting Call Pro' and 'Star now' to see what auditions have been posted.  I check these sites whether I am in work or out of work.  I think it is extremely important to stay within the loop, even if you are secure in employment.  The amount and type of auditions that are coming up give you a good understanding on how the industry is at that time and you should always be monitoring the industry as you never now when you are going to re-enter.  Looking at the requirements for an audition is also a great information source; if you can see that cruise lines are constantly asking for a ballad and jazz standard for example, then if this is the kind of work you are interested in, you make sure that you have these types of songs available should an audition come up.   

Expanding my own resources is something I try to do regularly, so getting new sheet music, new monologues, Soundtracks etc.  My main source for this are web based downloading sites; 'Sheet Music Direct' - enables me to download sheet music in an appropriate key and you can print immediately, 'Ameritz' - a great site for getting backing tracks.  They have a huge selection and again you can download it in a variety of keys.  I mainly use websites for this but whilst at college I utilised greatly the resources they had available there.  Libraries are a great source of information, and even a local non specialised library can have many hidden surprises.  Our craft is our livlihood and the more information and resources we can get, the more developed as a professional we will become. 

I am a huge fan of the traditional Notice Board.  I used to take class regularly in London and would easily spend half an hour each visit glancing through the wealth of information posted on the notice board.  Auditions would be posted, details of future classes/workshops, houses for rent, tutors available etc. All sorts would be posted on the notice board and you could come away from a class, not having spoken to anyone, but with 2 or 3 auditions lined up and 2 new classes pencilled in for that week.  For me this is a prime example of 'Information Network' rather than 'People Network'.  The notice board also gives you the opportunity to post things, for example if you are looking for something in particular, you can post it up on the notice board and hope that someone within the network of the studio would contact you with the information you require. 

General theatre websites are a great source of information for any Professional within this industry.  Sites such as 'The Stage' and 'Whats on Stage' provide a huge range of information all relating to our specific industry.  The Stage website provides not only information about upcoming auditions but general advice, reviews of shows, information on training, blogs, upcoming events etc.. I have used the phrase 'in the loop' numerous times when talking about Networking, but it is so true.  You have to be in the loop and in order to do this you need to be aware of what is going on around you within the industry.  You also have to be able to extract information for yourself e.g if there is an article about an upcoming musical, then your brain should be saying...Audition opportunity!! It is about being switched on and utilising the information sources that are available to you!

Finally, I think the phenomenom that is You Tube is a fantastic information source.  I usually use You tube to watch clips of shows that I haven't had the opportunity to see live.  I like to watch Broadway shows and see what is happening in theatre over the other side of the world.  The videos can be a great source of inspiration for me; an incredible singer or great choreography and I am inspired to work harder and achieve what they have achieved.  I also use it as a reference tool for auditions - say for example I had an audition for Fame, I would watch clips of the show and try to get a feel for the style and choreography of the show.  It is about trying to get ahead of the game and giving yourself the best opportunity!

At the end of the day all of these Information Sources/Networks enable us to develop as Professionals.  They help to give us the tools and skills needed to survive and blossom within this tough, ever changing, unpredicatble industry that is 'The Arts'.  I believe that these information networks are equally as important as people networks, both are essential in the growth and development of our Professional Practice. 

How do I organise all of Information gained?

To be honest my Journal is starting to become a great tool for this - organising and gathering information.  I keep my journal on my netbook, which suits me perfectly as my whole life is pretty much on this one tiny laptop.  If I really like a certain video on Youtube, I can copy the URL and paste it into my Journal entry for that day. No doubt I will be writing about the video and if I need to access it again, I can simply flick through my Journal and find the link to the video.  Anything that I have found particularly useful that day or any information gained that needs to be written down, I can write it in my journal and it can be easily accessed whenever needed. 

Before my Journal I had a 'Personl Contacts' book and would write down information in here, but this was mainly for keeping contact details of 'people networks'.  I always keep copies of emails in files on my computer and pretty much have all my information stored on my netbook.  I guess this is proof of how technology really has influenced our learning styles!!

I have no doubt that are more Information Sources that I can be utilising and I look forward to reading about your 'Sources of Information'.  I will be commenting on my views of other's Information Sources and hopefully this will give me ways in which I can expand and improve upon my own gathering and organisation of Information. 

I look forward to blogging on your task 3c's :)

Task 3b: Theories Relating to Networks

I must admit it took me a long while to get to grips with some of the theories in Reader 3, but after much persistent with it and careful reading I think I've got my head around most of them and how they can be of benefit to me in my own Professional Networking.

Please find the link below to my piece on 'Theories relating to Networks'....

https://docs.google.com/document/d/1hXYqvHJBLKK2IEb4Mxi3rPYS2AMMS8kP7Xo2SbUVdrA/edit

Please read if you get the time and tell me what you think. I'd be really interested to hear your opinions and whether you agree/disagree with my opinions on the theories.

Take care :)

Task 3a: Current Networks

My Current Networks

I have always been a very inquisitive person and I believe am the kind of person who will make things happen for themselves. I don't tend to wait for things to come to me, therefore networking was an instinctive thing for me to do, even if I wasn't really aware that I was doing so. 

As I am not living in London at the moment my main way of Networking is Web based, however when I was living in the Capital I would regularly attend class, making this a priority in my week.  This was not only to 'keep up to scratch' but to talk with others at the class, fellow Professionals in the Industry.  Very often I would hear of an audition through someone at the class and I always tried to make myself 'part of the loop'.  I think there is a fine line between being nosy/annoying and inquisitive; I hope I was always the latter! Sometimes I would actually stumble upon an audition that was taking place due to being at the studio, as they say, it's about 'being in the right place at the right time'.  A great way of networking is actually attending auditions.  Often I would go to an audition even if I didn't particularly want the job, as I knew that some form of networking would come from it.  You start to see the same faces and they will tell you stories of their experiences, previous auditions, etc. all information that may be utilised in the future. I also believe that being persistent at auditions is a form of networking.  Keep being seen by Casting Panels; the more they see you, hopefully the more chance you will have. 

It is also important to socialise with other members of the Profession; go along to that charity performance or gala evening, even if you really aren't in the mood! You never know who you are going to get talking to and what inside scoop you may be given.  At the end of the day we need all the help we can get and a strong Professional Network can be 'a network of support that will help us when we are in need'.  Often my friends would invite me along to a gig/show that their friends were performing in and obviously the night out that followed.  I would always try to make it and mingle as much as possible, making sure to get contact details when possible to do so!

I believe in utilising friends within the Industry - as long as you are willing to give back what you take - Cooperation!!! I would very often swap Portfolios with a friend and 'raid' hers to find songs that I did not have or did not know.  There were often people at college who were extremely reluctant to help; I simply made a mental note of this ;)  If I have an audition for something I will always contact, preferably someone in the show, someone who has worked for them before or at last resort someone who has auditioned for them previously.  It is a great idea to get hints and tips before an audition and it can help to know what the panel are looking for, what to wear, what to sing, etc...

It is a good idea to remain close with people you have worked with, particularly Directors and Choreographers.  Again, it is all about 'who you know' and if they can put a good word in for you it really can make all the difference.  It is extremely frustrating when you go to an audition and you see an auditionee walk up to the Choreographer and exchange kisses and cuddles and surprise surprise they get called, even though they are perhaps not the strongest.  Yes, it is extremely annoying, hence why you should take full advantage of it when you know somebody!

Both previously and currently one of my main methods of Networking is via email.  I am constantly emailing new Production Companies, Casting Agents, Producers with my CV, Headshot and Covering Letter.  I remember one time my old Acting Tutor gave me a list of addresses with around 50 Producing Houses on it and I wrote to every single one of them.  Out of the 50, maybe 5-10 replied, and from those perhaps I got 2 auditions.  A very tedious process and slightly disheartening, but you have to remind yourself that all you need is that one break and that 1 reply could've been all you needed.  I email people that I have previously auditioned for and inform them of my availability and what I have been doing since we last met, also attaching with this a current CV and Headshot (as a gentle reminder).  Again the difficulty here is finding the balance between being persistent but not too pushy, as this can often aggrevate potential employers!

I am a member of Spotlight which is already a huge established network and I regularly check sites such as 'Whats on Stage' and 'The Stage' for the latest gossip/news.  It is here you can try and get one step ahead of the game.  If you know that a show is coming to town next year, then get on to your Agent (another already established Professional Network) and make sure they get you that audition. Start to prepare well in advance and get any inside scoop possible - are they replacing the whole cast? Just principle roles? etc.

There are many Social Networking sites that could also be utilised in a Professional Networking sense.  I only tend to use facebook as a means of catching up with old friends, and often I will ask them what they are doing at the moment and little hints and tips.  I would be reluctant to use Facebook to network with Directors/Choreographers etc. just as to me it doesn't seem very Professional and there is far too much information on my Personal Page that I would not want a potential employer to get hold of.  In this sense I would much prefer to use private email, but this is just a personal opinion and I can see the many benefits of networking through social media sites. 

At college we were encouraged to keep a 'Contacts' book; a book where you would write down the details of any contacts that could form part of your Professional Network.  I think this is a great idea and really gets students in the right mindset when they are let loose into the Showbiz world.  For some people college/institutions can be one big bubble and often we are not prepared when we are released into the 'Wild'.  So this was a little way of starting to get us mentally prepared for the life we were to lead - a constant loop of networks!!

I have taken a slight step back from 'the loop' as I am waiting on another contract from a previous employer, so it is perhaps not a priority at the moment but prior to this, this was my life; 'A Constant loop of Networks'.  I would network at any given opportunity and always wanted to be the bearer of information. I'd like to think I am always cooperative and am willing to share my knowledge with other like minded Professionals. 

Forum/Blog based Networks are great, due to their huge affiliation, however my ideal way of Networking is through making Personal Contacts and making a huge effort to strengthen and develop our relationships.  This is probably one of the hardest Networks to develop and really requires you to engage with it and dedicate yourself to it for it to be successful.  For me, this type of Professional Network is one that I could fully place my trust in and rely on in that 'time of need'. 

I would like to look more into the phenomenom that is Twitter.  Prior to starting this course I would say I was a mini technophobe, but the course has opened my eyes to new technolgies and new ways of approaching technology.  I'm sure the wealth of information you could gain from following someone would be invaluable, so it is my aim to look into Twitter further and see how this Network could perhaps be of benefit to me and my Professional Network. 

As a closing point....

Keep your Networks strong and don't break the links!! Professional Networks require full engagement in order for them to be fully successful and benefitial.  Get your priorities right and focus on those which are going to provide you what you need, both currently and in the future!

End of an Era....well of Reader 2!

So, I think I am finally drawing Part 2 of Module 1 to a close.  I really feel I have learnt a lot about Reflection and also about myself.  The Journal has been great for me and I believe will really help me to get the most out of future experiences.  Most importantly it is my new method of 'relaxation and meditation', I'm not sure how  kept sane before it :)

Now to tackle Reader 3.......I'll be blogging my thoughts in due course!!

Take care and Happy Journal Writing!!!

Task 2D: Inquiry

Emerging Lines of Inquiry

I have taken the time to read through previous Journal entries and blog comments in order to help me answer the following questions....

What in your daily practice gets you really enthusiastic? Is there anybody in particular that you admire for their enthusiasm or who instills enthusiasm within you?

My daily practice at the moment revolves mainly around teaching, as I am in between Performing contracts, so I have to focus on my Teaching Practice. 

I always get a sudden surge of enthusiasm when I know the children have really responded to a lesson, even more so when it is a child who rarely engages.  I had a child who never joined in or even spoke throughout the whole session, then he started to join in and even came up to me, said my name and wanted to tell me how he was going on holiday.  This may seem like a very simple thing but to me it was a huge event; he had placed his trust in me and had clearly started to enjoy the lesson.  I am also extremely enthusiastic when I see how children with disabilities respond so well to the sessions. I have always believed that music is a great outlet for children with disabilities and the more time I spend teaching children with disabilities the more I realise this is so true!

I am also very enthusiastic about effective time management; utilising my time well and trying my hardest not to waste valuable time.  My enthusiasm towards the day is always greater when it has been productive and I have used time management effectively. 

Within my current day to day practice there isn't an individual in particular that inspires me because of their enthusiasm, however whilst training I had the most wonderful Acting Tutor called Andy Smith.  Every lesson he would radiate with enthusiasm and this would be passed on to the members of his class, especially myself.  I loved the energy he brought to every lesson and he never let personal issues get in the way of this, as so many teachers do!

I do admire the Nursery staff who really get involved with the children and are enthusiastic about the sessions I teach.  The way the children behave is really reflected in the quality of the staff and in general I find the most enthusiastic children are found in the nurseries with the most enthusiastic staff!

What gets you angry or makes you sad?

What really makes me sad is rude children and seeing children who clearly have not been taught how to behave.  I teach so many children who have clearly been given everything and never have been told NO! Even at the age of 3 and 4 children should have been taught basic manners, after all manners do not cost.  I am surprised when a child thanks me for passing them an instrument and this should not be the case.  There are so many children who turn on the water works when they cannot get their own way and even the nursery staff let them behave in this way. Children need to be taught manners from an early age, as it will have an affect on the people they grow up to be! Many children don't know how to share or just simply how to be nice to each other and this makes me really sad :(

It also makes me sad when the children are not responsive to a lesson.  I have experienced lessons that really have not worked and none of the children have really engaged fully throughout.  It makes me doubt my teaching ability, something which upsets me a great deal.  I need to analyse the lesson, find out what didn't work and how it can be adapted in order for this not to happen in the future.

What do you love about what you do? Who do you admire who also seems to love this?

I love making children happy through the mediums of Music and Dance.  At a young age it is a vehicle for learning and development and I love nothing more than seeing a child develop over a period of time.  Seeing children engage with music and dance is so rewarding; I have always believed that Music and Dance should be introduced at an early age and with teaching young children, I get to see the benefits of this. 

Relating this to my Performing Career; I love entertaining the audience and transporting them to another place for those couple of hours. When I was younger I loved going to theatre and feeling the magic and buzz whenever the cast were on stage. I love nothing more than the idea that I am bringing that magic and buzz to audience members every evening.  I want to give them an experience that they will always remember and it is a joy to be able to do this. 

A couple of years ago I went to watch 'Sister Act' the Musical in London and an actress called Patina Miller was playing the lead role. She was absolutely phenomenal!! She had the most amazing presence and energy on stage that I could not take my eyes off her.  Yes, her voice was incredible and her Acting was great, but it was that buzz and energy she created throughout the audience that I remembered most of all from her performance.  She instilled joy within me and it reminded me of the exact reason why I chose to pursue this career.

This is a clip of Patina and the cast of Sister Act singing at the Tony Awards....see if you get goosebumps like I do every time :)

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xwoMaL9-hG4&feature=related

What do you feel you don't understand? Who do you admire who seems to understand this or who has found a way of making not understanding it interesting or beautiful?

I am not entirely sure I know what I want out of my Professional Future.  I know I want to teach, ideally Musical Theatre/Performing Arts to 16-18yr olds, but is this going to be sufficient.  I am hoping to do a couple more Performing contracts but my plan then is to fully concentrate on my teaching career.  I don't know whether this will satisfy me or will I always long to perform? Will I be more happy to focus on my personal life rather than my professional life? Most importantly will I have enough knowledge and life experience to be a good teacher?

I personally feel that to be a good teacher you have to have had experiences yourself.  In teaching you pass on the knowledge that you have learnt from these experiences and therefore am I cutting my Performing career too short?  This is a common dilemma within my Journal and I don't think I will know the answer to this until I try it out and see what happens.

I admire my best friend so much, she has taught me that no decision is for life and you cannot be expected to know what you will want in a year's time, never mind 10 years time.  This is one of my problems, I try to plan too far in advance and this is so unrealistic, as life is constantly changing and we have to adapt and change with it.  She has taught me that you have to go with what seems right at the time. If it turns out to be the wrong decision then you deal with it then; you learn from every experience whether good or bad!

She was training to be a Professional Dancer, having danced since the age of 4.  She then decided that it was not the career for her and completely changed her career path.  She survived and is actually happier than ever. I am obviously not completely changing careers but it gives me reassurance that change is good and although can be scary, can be extremely rewarding!

Emerging Lines of Inquiry

• How can Music and Dance be made more accessible to children from a young age?
• Ways in which I can still perform whilst holding down a teaching career?
• Finding creative and fun ways to teach children manners - would this change their behaviour within the lesson? Would be good to experiment with this!
• Studying in more detail the benefits of Music and Dance to children with disabilities.

I would be really interested to know if anyone agrees or disagrees with the comments I have made or just simply if you related to them in anyway.

Take care, Jo : )

Reader 2: Task 2 - finding the layers behind ideas that you 'like'!!

Finding the True Thoughts Behind the Ideas that we 'Like'

In Reader 2 we are asked to think about an idea that we like and think about why it is that we like this idea?

Adesola gives a great example; she likes the idea that dancers are practical people and learn kinaesthetically.  When she broke this down and really asked herself why she liked it, it turned out that it wasn't necessarily the idea that she liked but it was more about her feelings towards herself.  It gave her justification that it was ok to be practical, rather than being able to sit down and read, something which she didn't feel particularly good at.

Personal Example

What idea do you like?

I really like the idea of being able to combine my work and social activities with keeping fit! I like the idea that my job keeps me fit and I like to choose social activities that are keeping me active and healthy.  For example I would much prefer to go for a walk rather than watch a film or go swimming in stead of out for a drink.

Why do I like this idea?

On the surface I would say it is because I prefer more active types of activities.  I enjoy going to the gym and I enjoy outdoorsy activities.  Although this is true, does this mean that I don't enjoy sitting down to watch a film or read a book? Of course not, I love to do these things too, so then I had to ask well why is it really that I choose 'keep fit' activites over the more shall we say relaxing ones?

As a perfomer I am constantly wanting to stay in shape and as they say stay 'job ready'.  When I am performing I am usually at the peak of my fitness and don't need to worry about this as the job is keeping me fit. However, when I am out of work I really feel the pressure to stay in shape and to not become lazy.  Therefore, when I really thought about it, I choose these type of activities so that I don't feel guilty!! If I were to sit on the couch, relax and read a book, in the back of my mind I would always have that constant feeling that I should be being active and keeping myself in top form. 

Choosing activities like the gym, walking, swimming etc. means that when I do decide to have half an hour 'relax' time, I can properly relax knowing I have been active at some point during the day.  It saddens me slightly to think of it like this, but I guess this is my true feeling towards it.  I do really enjoy being active though and love the endorphines that are released during exercise, but the hidden layers are definitely there!!

Task 2C: Reflective Theory

Hello :)

So after lots of note taking, reading, re-reading, applying practices, journal writing, etc. I have finished my essay on my use of Reflective Practice.

I have tried to be as thorough as possible and have really tried to relate the practices back the me and how they have helped with my Professional Reflection.

Please take a read if you get a chance and let me know what you think. Any comments are greatly appreciated.

Take care, Jo :)

https://docs.google.com/document/d/1XIPG4ERFRpRpfIw1pud-x9ALem9Xl7SJ359xc4esCsE/edit

Task 2B: Journal Writing Experience

Journal Writing Experience

Well, an experience it has definitely been!! Over the last couple of weeks I have tried every method laid out in the Handbook, along with some other suggested methods.  After writing each one I tried to immediately analyse what had come from it and made a few notes on each method:

Description

Definitely a good way to start this process. As I had never written a Journal before this seemed the most natural way of writing for me. However, instead of purely writing a description of the day I noticed that I was going into more detail and actually involving aspects of 'Initial Reflection' and 'Evaluation'...Would this turn out to be the best method for me?

Initial Reflection

I discovered more so with this method that I don't like to be restricted when writing the Journal.  I was trying very hard to focus on just the 'Initial reflection' of the day, but couldn't help but add description and again a little evaluation into the log.  I felt unsatisfied with just focusing on the questions laid out in the handbook and felt I needed to express more about the day.  So overall, I would describe this method as a little restricting for my liking.

List

I was really surprised by this method.  Being an avid list maker I thought I would absolutely love this method of Journal Writing, however it had the total opposite affect.  I felt completely restricted by this method, I was constantly wanting to expand my thoughts further but knew that this was not the requirements of this version.  I tried to stick to a bullet point format but no matter how hard I tried, the bullet points were expanding further and further.  Not the method for me!

Evaluation

I loved this method!! It promoted the most successful reflection out of all the methods I tried. Once again I included a little bit of description within it and Initial Reflection but overall this format as a single method really worked for me.  It showed me very clearly the positives and negatives throughout the day and what worked and what didn't work.  For example, I learnt that I shouldn't try to plan too far in advance and that working in the morning is the best option for me.  Knowing this, I planned the next day around these new discoveries - is this not a true example of learning from your experiences i.e. reflection!! Will defintiely be using this method!

Graph/Chart/Diagram

For this method I decided to do a chart comparing aspects of my life last October to aspects of my life this October.  I enjoyed making the chart as it really did make me think about aspects of my life now, what needs to be improved and what I am happy with.  However, I was unsatisfied with just doing a chart. I had to discuss it and evaluate it to feel satisfied! At this point I was realising more and more that the description and evaluation method was definitely the method for me.  I think these extra techniques are useful once in a while, but only as additions not as a complete Journal entry.  I cannot really reflect without a thorough analysis and evaluation.

What if?

I really liked this method and would use it as a method of 'Reflection before an event' (David Boud).  By asking yourself questions such as What would you love to happen? What would you hate to happen? etc. you clearly set out what it is you want to achieve from the following day.  Unless you know exactly what you want to achieve then it is unlikely that you will make these goals.  It can help you think about things to avoid and ensure you get the best possible outcome for the day.  It would be quite nice to do this at the end of each day, after you have analysed and evaluated the day, then use this method to enable you to get the most out of tomorrow!

Another view

I decided to write my Journal from the perspective of my teaching bag.  Throughout I felt like I was writing a children's story and gave the bag a childlike persona; I cannot really explain why I did this, it just happened naturally.  I noticed that I am a lot more sympathetic and give myself a much easier time than if I was writing from my own perspective.  This may be a good method to use if you are having particularly negative feelings towards an experience.  Hopefully it can get rid of these feelings, by looking at it through lesser judging eyes and you can learn and develop from the experience, rather than letting those feelings inhibit the reflection process.  I'm not sure I would use this in a day to day instance, however occasionally it may be nice to view things from a different perspective and maybe learn something new from an existing experience.

Poem

This was the only method that was completely unsuccessful for me and I actually couldn't finish my Journal entry.  I was too concerned with the structure of the poem to actually think about the content within it.  I was adding anything just so the poem read well, rather than writing about my actual feelings.  Not a method I will be attempting again, well not any time soon!

Stream of Consciousness

This is when you write the first things that come into your head. 

With this method I was constantly changing my thought processes.  It started off with a huge thought…'Will I fail?’ That is quite a big statement to make and I found it interesting that this was the first thought that came into my head. I am very philosophical and talk very openly about my dreams, aspirations, fears etc. With this I was writing about the 'bigger picture' and started to talk very broadly about things, rather than specific day to day events.  This would be a good method to use every once in a while, just to see how you are generally feeling about life rather than focusing on the smaller day to day events. 

The Experience

Althought this task is entitled 'Journal Writing Experience', my experience with Journals has really only just begun.  However, this initial experience has enabled me to find a combination of methods that really work for me and that actually promotes successful reflection, after all this is the main reason why we are keeping the Journal! I am going to be using a combination of Description and Evaluation, adding on 'What if?' to the end of each Journal entry.  I have really enjoyed writing the Journals so far and have found the experience theraputic and calming.  It helps to settle my thoughts and find logic and meaning within them; is this not the process of Reflection?

Happy Journal Writing :)

How have I applied Boud's insight about refelction to my own practice??

Paula asked me the above question after she read the piece I had written on Boud 'Journal: A Critical Reflection'.  It made me realise that my weakness is definitely relating everything back to me and asking...'How has this affected my Professional Practice?' 'How can I use the methods within my own Personal Reflection?'

I am usually quite good at looking at a piece of work and analysing it, however especially if I am to do well on this course I need to always link it back to ME!! How does it affect me? How can these theories apply to my Proofessional Practice?

So, with this I decided to look at the piece I had written about Boud and think about how his insights and theories relate to my own Professional Practice and methods of Reflection?

Boud places equal or more emphasis on reflection-on-action and I feel this is because Journal Writing often falls into this 'offline' method of reflection.  I have never really written a Journal prior to this course, but as I mentioned in a previous blog it is really helping me to reflect on my day to day events.  More than anything it is helping me to organise my thoughts and process them into some sort of logical order - REFLECTION!!

Throughout the article he mainly focuses on the three 'Occasions of Reflection' - reflection before, during and after an event.  I realised that I almost always reflect before an event.  I am very much a planner and like to feel fully prepared for all eventualities. I hate turning up to something and not having the right equipment or not having made the necessary preparations.  I always take the event and try to think of every possible eventuality (although this is never going to be fully possible).  I write a list of anything I may need, ask people who may have experienced a similar event any advice they can give, plan my journey way in advance etc... I would often take every type of shoe imaginable to an audition, 'just in case'!! 

Being a performer I feel it is a given that we reflect midst action.  It is instinctive within us to reflect-in-action, we adpat in the now and this is a very hands on method that Boud describes as difficult to achieve but with the greatest benefits.  Take for example mid show....I realised that a performer had urgently left the stage and therefore the formation was now incorrect. Rather than leave a huge gap, which would be noticeable to the audience, I moved to compensate for the missing performer.  These type of reactions are instinctive within performers, and without realising we are constantly reflecting. An audiences reaction can often determine how you adapt mid show. For example, if it seems that the audience are really not responding you do not wait until the end of a show, you try anything you can to get that connection back. You up the energy levels, try to gain audience interaction if possible etc...

Previously I would reflect after the event by using notes given by the Dance Captain. I would look at my notes and think how can I improve on these for next time? Usually they were things I knew but did not have time to reflect-in-action on them.  The Journal is now my new, main method of reflection after the event, although the Journal will also help me before and during events.  The evaluation method is really helping to promote successful reflection for me.  It helps me to see what was good/bad about the day and how to get the best outcome should the event happen again.  Boud describes that there are 3 parts to 'Reflection after the event' - Returning to the experience, Attending to Feelings and Re-evaluating the experience.  When attending to feelings Boud describes how Journals can be used much more creatively in this way.  I haven't tried this yet but intend to experiment with poems, colour and more expressive syles of writing, as often feelings cannot be dealt with in a 'black and white' way. 

Boud's assumption on Reflection: 'You have to be fully engaged with events and be ACTIVE in order to learn from your experiences'.  This is something I definitely always strive to do.  I am a firm believer in 'you get out what you put in'.  I try to give as much as I can to every aspect of my life in order to get the most out of my experiences and I hope that in doing this I will truly learn from all of my day to day experiences :)