This has been something that has been bothering me for weeks now, choosing my award title for my degree. I trained in Musical Theatre and continue to work in this field so at first thought this would be the natural choice for me. But then I got to thinking about my career since leaving college and the work I have done and continue to do and it covers such a wide range of genres and styles. One day I am performing a pop show as part of a UK theatre tour, the next a 1940s corporate gig, to a country and Western show in a care home. It covers so much more than just musical theatre so I decided the best choice would be 'Performing Arts'.
The title 'Performing Arts' can be an umbrella for a many number of things that suit my expertise and career not just as a performer but as a teacher. I pride myself on being an all rounder of singing dancing and acting, so this would be most suitable. I feel the title 'Musical theatre' would have fenced me in in terms of my skill set as my practice is much broader than this one genre. Also this way I am much more open to many other opportunities of a wide spectrum when other professionals with this title as it can be adapted to many things.
Hopefully this title will be excepted and I cannot wait to gaining this qualification to further my career!
Monday 18 April 2016
6b- tools
Observations
I have decided to do both observations of others (rehearsals for shows) as well as observations during my own performances (how residents act, react and the feedback).
Observations
I think this will be beneficial for my research as, although other people can be interviewed and surveyed, using this tool I can see first hand the performances and reflect and critique what I feel works and what could be improved. With the consent of the participants, I plan to video record the rehearsal sessions, so I can look back upon them repeatedly to make notes and to analyse in detail. My accounts of these observations will be of a qualitative nature, as I feel quantitive would not be useful for my inquiry. The downside to this tool is just how time consuming it would be to attend multiple rehearsal sessions, then recording the findings from them. However I do feel the positives outweigh this, so I am prepared to take the time to do this in order to get the most from my inquiry.
This is all further explained in a previous blog- More thinking points Reader 6
I have decided to do both observations of others (rehearsals for shows) as well as observations during my own performances (how residents act, react and the feedback).
Observations
I think this will be beneficial for my research as, although other people can be interviewed and surveyed, using this tool I can see first hand the performances and reflect and critique what I feel works and what could be improved. With the consent of the participants, I plan to video record the rehearsal sessions, so I can look back upon them repeatedly to make notes and to analyse in detail. My accounts of these observations will be of a qualitative nature, as I feel quantitive would not be useful for my inquiry. The downside to this tool is just how time consuming it would be to attend multiple rehearsal sessions, then recording the findings from them. However I do feel the positives outweigh this, so I am prepared to take the time to do this in order to get the most from my inquiry.
This is all further explained in a previous blog- More thinking points Reader 6
6B-tools
Interviews
This is tool that I feel will not only benefit myself but also the people I am interviewing. As Bell says it is an advantage that “can follow up on ideas, probe responses and investigate motives and feelings” (Bell, 2005, p.157). This means I can get a full insight into how someone works, what their feelings are and their motives behind the choices they make within their career.
A great advantage of this is that there are many ways of interviewing someone, so you have more windows of opportunity to get information. These include
• face to face or over the telephone
• with an individual or a group of people
• using a structured list of questions or a more informal method of
interaction
(Reader 6-pg 17h)
As I am already using questionnaires as another tool, I will keep away from just using a structured list of questions, as I feel they will be very similar, so I am not fully utilising the way in which I can extract information. Instead I will try to get as many accounts of experiences I can, to build up a file of different experiences from a variety of people, to draw upon and analyse. When people are interviewed and record their experiences with me, it will automatically make them reflect themselves, in turn benefiting them as they can evaluate the positives and negatives of these experiences.
Structure-
Although it will be semi structured in the sense I will give heading on a few topics that need to be covered , I would like the interview open and follow a narrative enquiry style. That way people are free to talk about what they wish, giving room for feelings, motives and overall a more in depth interview as they can give as much info as they wish. The only problem with this is ensuring interviewees do not branch off from the chosen topics and go off on tangents. This is why I will have a few headings of topics to ensure I get the relevant accounts from the interview.
Another limitation is time. As I wish to conduct as many interviews as possible, this will require a significant amount of time for both myself and the interviewee. I must ensure I plan these a great deal ahead of time so I can mange a schedule that fits in for me and my interviewees so I can carry out all of them successfully.
Recording the interviews-
If possible I will aim to video these interviews, then transcribing it afterwards. This way I can look back upon them several times and pick up on tone of voice body language etc which adds a completely new dimension to just written words. The limitation if this, is all candidates will have to consent to this, so it may not always be possible if they do not wish to be filmed or wish to be anonymous. Instead I will either write theirs answers, or dictaphone the interview transcribing it afterwards keeping the details confidential.
Overall though, I do feel this is great tool for the inquiry as I will be able to find out first hand form other performers, just what they think of the industry and specific field we work within.
This is tool that I feel will not only benefit myself but also the people I am interviewing. As Bell says it is an advantage that “can follow up on ideas, probe responses and investigate motives and feelings” (Bell, 2005, p.157). This means I can get a full insight into how someone works, what their feelings are and their motives behind the choices they make within their career.
A great advantage of this is that there are many ways of interviewing someone, so you have more windows of opportunity to get information. These include
• face to face or over the telephone
• with an individual or a group of people
• using a structured list of questions or a more informal method of
interaction
(Reader 6-pg 17h)
As I am already using questionnaires as another tool, I will keep away from just using a structured list of questions, as I feel they will be very similar, so I am not fully utilising the way in which I can extract information. Instead I will try to get as many accounts of experiences I can, to build up a file of different experiences from a variety of people, to draw upon and analyse. When people are interviewed and record their experiences with me, it will automatically make them reflect themselves, in turn benefiting them as they can evaluate the positives and negatives of these experiences.
Structure-
Although it will be semi structured in the sense I will give heading on a few topics that need to be covered , I would like the interview open and follow a narrative enquiry style. That way people are free to talk about what they wish, giving room for feelings, motives and overall a more in depth interview as they can give as much info as they wish. The only problem with this is ensuring interviewees do not branch off from the chosen topics and go off on tangents. This is why I will have a few headings of topics to ensure I get the relevant accounts from the interview.
Another limitation is time. As I wish to conduct as many interviews as possible, this will require a significant amount of time for both myself and the interviewee. I must ensure I plan these a great deal ahead of time so I can mange a schedule that fits in for me and my interviewees so I can carry out all of them successfully.
Recording the interviews-
If possible I will aim to video these interviews, then transcribing it afterwards. This way I can look back upon them several times and pick up on tone of voice body language etc which adds a completely new dimension to just written words. The limitation if this, is all candidates will have to consent to this, so it may not always be possible if they do not wish to be filmed or wish to be anonymous. Instead I will either write theirs answers, or dictaphone the interview transcribing it afterwards keeping the details confidential.
Overall though, I do feel this is great tool for the inquiry as I will be able to find out first hand form other performers, just what they think of the industry and specific field we work within.
6b continued- tools
Reviewing literature
I did touch on this subject in a previous blog (Reader 6- Food for thought), commenting on how I have gathered articles, journals etc in the past as a way of furthering my knowledge within my chosen career. I find reviewing Literature is a great way of research as often they give in depth detail of a particular subject e.g 'funding for arts in care' focusing in on this so I can collect many notes and facts on it.
I think it is important to find literature from a number of sources e.g magazines, online blogs, essays from books, newspapers etc as they are all written very differently so you gain info in a variety of ways, therefore expanding your knowledge on many levels. Keeping up to date with current affairs within your trade is extremely important, as in order to move forwards and progress yourself, you must be aware and up to speed with anything happening in your field so you stay ahead of the game. For example, whenever 'care homes uk' publish a new article about entertainment I always ensure I read and review it, taking into account any positive and/or negative comments about the industry, and reflecting how I can adapt to changes in the industry to suit my performances.
However when reviewing literature, it is important to take into consideration who has written it, and what viewpoint they will already have on this subject. For instance an article written by an entertainer who themselves work within care homes, will have a completely different viewpoint from a journalist writing about funding within the arts, or a scientist writing about the neurological affects on the arts. I find gathering as many different viewpoint as possible helps establish an unbiased overall inquiry, as many professional opinions will be reviewed and reflected upon.
I did touch on this subject in a previous blog (Reader 6- Food for thought), commenting on how I have gathered articles, journals etc in the past as a way of furthering my knowledge within my chosen career. I find reviewing Literature is a great way of research as often they give in depth detail of a particular subject e.g 'funding for arts in care' focusing in on this so I can collect many notes and facts on it.
I think it is important to find literature from a number of sources e.g magazines, online blogs, essays from books, newspapers etc as they are all written very differently so you gain info in a variety of ways, therefore expanding your knowledge on many levels. Keeping up to date with current affairs within your trade is extremely important, as in order to move forwards and progress yourself, you must be aware and up to speed with anything happening in your field so you stay ahead of the game. For example, whenever 'care homes uk' publish a new article about entertainment I always ensure I read and review it, taking into account any positive and/or negative comments about the industry, and reflecting how I can adapt to changes in the industry to suit my performances.
However when reviewing literature, it is important to take into consideration who has written it, and what viewpoint they will already have on this subject. For instance an article written by an entertainer who themselves work within care homes, will have a completely different viewpoint from a journalist writing about funding within the arts, or a scientist writing about the neurological affects on the arts. I find gathering as many different viewpoint as possible helps establish an unbiased overall inquiry, as many professional opinions will be reviewed and reflected upon.
Task 6b- reflections on 4 research tools
After careful thought and consideration I decided these will be the 4 tools I will use within my research:
1. Questionnaires/surveys
2. Interviews
3. Reviewing and analysing documents
4. Participant Observer
Over the next couple of blogs I will be reviewing these tools, working out what are the positive and negative implications when using them in my inquiry.
Questionnaires
I used this as my pilot tool for task A and I explained my reasonings for using this tool. I did a lot of researching online for existing questionnaires to see the format and types of questions asked. I found a few examples of questionnaires online, but thought this one was particularly effective at first glance;
Please answer the survey sincerely.
Mark the Answer in RED please.
Questionnaire
1. Gender: Female \Male
Age: ____.
2. Do you dance? (Professionally or as a sport/ a hobby)
• Yes.
• No.
• Used to dance.
• I would like to learn how to dance.
3. Which style of dancing is more appealing to you?
• Modern types of dancing because of the cool extreme moves and the unlimited possibilities of movement.
• Classic types of dancing because of the clean technic and the glorious costumes.
• I like both styles same way.
• I like the movement of one style and the costumes of another.
4. Do you think that the stereotype of "dancing is for girls" still exists?
• Yes.
• No.
• Only for the modern styles of dancing such as Hip Hop and Jazz.
• Only for the classic styles of dancing such as Ballroom dancing and Ballet.
5. Do you believe that a dance can express and show real feelings or thoughts?
• Yes.
• No.
• Only for the modern styles of dancing.
• Only for the classic styles of dancing.
6. Are you uncomfortable with some styles of dancing?
• Yes. I'm not comfortable with the "extreme" forms of this art.
• Yes. With too brutal modern styles, for example: brutal Hip hop.
• Yes. With too close \ old and “mechanic” classic style.
• No. I’m fine with all the different styles of this art.
7. Which one from the following describes best your perception of dancing?
• A hobby.
• An art.
• A profession.
• A sport.
8. Do you think some styles will become irrelevant or even will disappear from the world?
• No this art, with its’ all different styles, is internal.
• Yes this art will disappear completely.
• Yes the classic ones, they are too limiting and old-fashioned.
• Yes the modern ones, they are too rebellious and “rough”.
9. Do you see dancing as a sport?
• No.
• Yes.
• Yes, only the modern styles of dancing.
• Yes, only the classic styles of dancing.
10. What in your opinion will happen to dancing as a sport? Please explain___________________________________.
What in your opinion will happen to dancing as an art? Please
explain___________________________________.
Taken from- http://www.dance-forums.com/threads/survey-about-dancing.40569/
Although the subject is not really relatable to my inquiry, I think the format and wording of the questions are good at getting the needed information. Although they are closed questions, I like the way they have provided more answers than simply 'yes' or 'no'. This allows room for a wider range of opinions and information. I will take the format and style of questionnaire to possibly use for my own research. To develop on these questions I will leave a comment box at a the bottom of each one to allow people to elaborate on an answer should they wish. That way I have a chance at getting even more from the questionnaire, extracting as much information as I possibly can. This is a tool I will definately choose for my research work as I feel it is quite a quick and direct way of finding things out from fellow professionals, without necessarily having to find the time to sit them down and fully interview them.
However after looking at the comments for this survey I saw many criticisms about the questionnaire that I fully understand and have take on board for when conducting my own.
Comments such as;
I don't understand... "modern" and "classical"? Ballroom is sort of both, and neither. Are you sure
you're looking for ballroom dancers to complete your survey? (Dbk jan 18th 2012)
Dance is a broad subject and I suspect that your poll reflects the particular specialized part of dance that you are involved in, but which many/most of us are not. I suspect that you are more involved with performance dance, which I understand can be separated into jazz ("modern") and ballet
("classical") -- please pardon my ignorance here -- , whereas I and many here are more involved in social partner dancing ... even though those involved in ballroom also tend to be involved in ballroom competition dancing (DWise1 jan 19th 2012)
Looking at these comments has made me understand the importance of specifics, making sure each question is clear and to the point, so it can be understood and therefore answered easily and correctly. Being vague leaves people confused and as a result uninterested so will not be willing to answer in full. My questions are specific to a certain calibre of performers so, they will already be on the same wavelength which is good, but I still need to check each question is specific to the profession and has no room for people to be confused.
1. Questionnaires/surveys
2. Interviews
3. Reviewing and analysing documents
4. Participant Observer
Over the next couple of blogs I will be reviewing these tools, working out what are the positive and negative implications when using them in my inquiry.
Questionnaires
I used this as my pilot tool for task A and I explained my reasonings for using this tool. I did a lot of researching online for existing questionnaires to see the format and types of questions asked. I found a few examples of questionnaires online, but thought this one was particularly effective at first glance;
Please answer the survey sincerely.
Mark the Answer in RED please.
Questionnaire
1. Gender: Female \Male
Age: ____.
2. Do you dance? (Professionally or as a sport/ a hobby)
• Yes.
• No.
• Used to dance.
• I would like to learn how to dance.
3. Which style of dancing is more appealing to you?
• Modern types of dancing because of the cool extreme moves and the unlimited possibilities of movement.
• Classic types of dancing because of the clean technic and the glorious costumes.
• I like both styles same way.
• I like the movement of one style and the costumes of another.
4. Do you think that the stereotype of "dancing is for girls" still exists?
• Yes.
• No.
• Only for the modern styles of dancing such as Hip Hop and Jazz.
• Only for the classic styles of dancing such as Ballroom dancing and Ballet.
5. Do you believe that a dance can express and show real feelings or thoughts?
• Yes.
• No.
• Only for the modern styles of dancing.
• Only for the classic styles of dancing.
6. Are you uncomfortable with some styles of dancing?
• Yes. I'm not comfortable with the "extreme" forms of this art.
• Yes. With too brutal modern styles, for example: brutal Hip hop.
• Yes. With too close \ old and “mechanic” classic style.
• No. I’m fine with all the different styles of this art.
7. Which one from the following describes best your perception of dancing?
• A hobby.
• An art.
• A profession.
• A sport.
8. Do you think some styles will become irrelevant or even will disappear from the world?
• No this art, with its’ all different styles, is internal.
• Yes this art will disappear completely.
• Yes the classic ones, they are too limiting and old-fashioned.
• Yes the modern ones, they are too rebellious and “rough”.
9. Do you see dancing as a sport?
• No.
• Yes.
• Yes, only the modern styles of dancing.
• Yes, only the classic styles of dancing.
10. What in your opinion will happen to dancing as a sport? Please explain___________________________________.
What in your opinion will happen to dancing as an art? Please
explain___________________________________.
Taken from- http://www.dance-forums.com/threads/survey-about-dancing.40569/
Although the subject is not really relatable to my inquiry, I think the format and wording of the questions are good at getting the needed information. Although they are closed questions, I like the way they have provided more answers than simply 'yes' or 'no'. This allows room for a wider range of opinions and information. I will take the format and style of questionnaire to possibly use for my own research. To develop on these questions I will leave a comment box at a the bottom of each one to allow people to elaborate on an answer should they wish. That way I have a chance at getting even more from the questionnaire, extracting as much information as I possibly can. This is a tool I will definately choose for my research work as I feel it is quite a quick and direct way of finding things out from fellow professionals, without necessarily having to find the time to sit them down and fully interview them.
However after looking at the comments for this survey I saw many criticisms about the questionnaire that I fully understand and have take on board for when conducting my own.
Comments such as;
I don't understand... "modern" and "classical"? Ballroom is sort of both, and neither. Are you sure
you're looking for ballroom dancers to complete your survey? (Dbk jan 18th 2012)
Dance is a broad subject and I suspect that your poll reflects the particular specialized part of dance that you are involved in, but which many/most of us are not. I suspect that you are more involved with performance dance, which I understand can be separated into jazz ("modern") and ballet
("classical") -- please pardon my ignorance here -- , whereas I and many here are more involved in social partner dancing ... even though those involved in ballroom also tend to be involved in ballroom competition dancing (DWise1 jan 19th 2012)
Looking at these comments has made me understand the importance of specifics, making sure each question is clear and to the point, so it can be understood and therefore answered easily and correctly. Being vague leaves people confused and as a result uninterested so will not be willing to answer in full. My questions are specific to a certain calibre of performers so, they will already be on the same wavelength which is good, but I still need to check each question is specific to the profession and has no room for people to be confused.
Task 6a- pilot tool
For my pilot tool, I decided to construct a survey/questionnaire that people involved in entertainment within care homes could answer. The reason I chose this as I felt I could collect a wide range of info from many different people within quite a short questionnaire, that can be accessed easily.
Here is the mock up questionnaire
Performing within care and Residential homes:
How did find the experience of working in this environment?
1. Enjoyable
2. Average
3. Disliked
Please comment on why you feel this way
How do you advertise your services to care homes?
1. Calling homes and offering your shows.
2. Emailing and websites
3. All of the above
Please comment if your chosen advertising is successful
How do you find it making continuous bookings and keeping busy?
1. Easy, we have a clientele that use us constantly and our bookings are always full
2. Ok, we do have some returning clientele but have to work hard to fill all bookings
3. Difficult, we are constantly having to push for future bookings
Please comment as to why you think this
Which era of music did you find worked best for the residents?
1. 1930-40s
2. 1950-60s
3. 1960s onwards
Please comment on why you chose your answer
How long do you think is most suitable for a performance?
1. Under 30 minutes
2. 35-45 minutes
3. 45-55 minutes
4. An hour plus
Please comment on why this is the most suitable time
Choose which format best describes your performance
1. All upbeat and happy songs
2. Mostly upbeat songs with a few nostalgic ballads
3. Mostly nostalgic ballads with a few up beat songs
Please comment as to why you choose this format
Choose an option that best describes your performances
1. Singing- little to no movement, simply standing behind a microphone with no interaction with residents.
2. Singing and dancing- a musical theatre style performance with dancing with no interaction with the residents.
3. Interactive and immersive performance- singing, dancing, encouraging residents to sing an dance along, enabling with residents.
Please comment as to why you chose to run your performances this way.
How was your performance received?
1. Very well- Residents were singing along, applauding all gave good feedback
2. Ok- some residents were responding, but some did not. Received some good feedback,
3. Badly- no residents were interacting and responding, no good feedback received.
Please comment on why you chose this answer
What do you feel is most important when performing to residents within care homes.
1. The song choice- ensuring the songs are what they would like to hear
2. Giving a quality performance- ensuring it is visually stimulating and of a high standard of singing and dancing.
3. Having nice costumes and good props for the theme of the show.
Please comment on why you think this is the most important
How beneficial do you think performances within care homes are?
1. Extremely beneficial, with residents gaining a lot from the experience.
2. Quite beneficial, some residents gaining from the experience
3. Not beneficial at all, the residents do not gain from the experience
Please leave an example of an experience which supports your answer
These are my first draft of questions for my inquiry. Do you think these are suitable? I am trying to cover lots of ground within it, do you think I can extract enough information?
Feedback would be so gratefully appreciated.
Here is the mock up questionnaire
Performing within care and Residential homes:
How did find the experience of working in this environment?
1. Enjoyable
2. Average
3. Disliked
Please comment on why you feel this way
How do you advertise your services to care homes?
1. Calling homes and offering your shows.
2. Emailing and websites
3. All of the above
Please comment if your chosen advertising is successful
How do you find it making continuous bookings and keeping busy?
1. Easy, we have a clientele that use us constantly and our bookings are always full
2. Ok, we do have some returning clientele but have to work hard to fill all bookings
3. Difficult, we are constantly having to push for future bookings
Please comment as to why you think this
Which era of music did you find worked best for the residents?
1. 1930-40s
2. 1950-60s
3. 1960s onwards
Please comment on why you chose your answer
How long do you think is most suitable for a performance?
1. Under 30 minutes
2. 35-45 minutes
3. 45-55 minutes
4. An hour plus
Please comment on why this is the most suitable time
Choose which format best describes your performance
1. All upbeat and happy songs
2. Mostly upbeat songs with a few nostalgic ballads
3. Mostly nostalgic ballads with a few up beat songs
Please comment as to why you choose this format
Choose an option that best describes your performances
1. Singing- little to no movement, simply standing behind a microphone with no interaction with residents.
2. Singing and dancing- a musical theatre style performance with dancing with no interaction with the residents.
3. Interactive and immersive performance- singing, dancing, encouraging residents to sing an dance along, enabling with residents.
Please comment as to why you chose to run your performances this way.
How was your performance received?
1. Very well- Residents were singing along, applauding all gave good feedback
2. Ok- some residents were responding, but some did not. Received some good feedback,
3. Badly- no residents were interacting and responding, no good feedback received.
Please comment on why you chose this answer
What do you feel is most important when performing to residents within care homes.
1. The song choice- ensuring the songs are what they would like to hear
2. Giving a quality performance- ensuring it is visually stimulating and of a high standard of singing and dancing.
3. Having nice costumes and good props for the theme of the show.
Please comment on why you think this is the most important
How beneficial do you think performances within care homes are?
1. Extremely beneficial, with residents gaining a lot from the experience.
2. Quite beneficial, some residents gaining from the experience
3. Not beneficial at all, the residents do not gain from the experience
Please leave an example of an experience which supports your answer
These are my first draft of questions for my inquiry. Do you think these are suitable? I am trying to cover lots of ground within it, do you think I can extract enough information?
Feedback would be so gratefully appreciated.
Thursday 14 April 2016
More thinking points- Reader 6
Reader 6- further notes
The Reader was extremely useful as it had thinking pints throughout, after each topic, helping me reflect on what I had just read. I felt it was useful to blog these thoughts to share them within my professional network and perhaps get some feedback on other peoples thoughts.
Analysing observations
What preparation do you need to do for your pilot observation?
As I wish to understand how people plan their entertainment sessions within care homes I will aim to record a rehearsal of some performers, along with another recorded interview afterwards. That way I can clearly see how they structure their shows and ask them what choices they make and why they make them.
Are there specific things on which you are focusing? How are you recording the data? Why?
Specifics-
*How Long are your shows and why?- grasps an idea of perfect session lengths.
* Song choices- eras, genres etc
* How to adapt to different spaces.
* What themes do you do? Which one works best? Why?
I will record this session using a video using a video device as I can then look back on the rehearsal process repeatedly, to ensure I capture all details of the session. I will then record these findings using qualities notes. As I am working with consenting adults at this point I will not need a gatekeeper.
Insider Researcher
What is your own position as an insider- researcher?
Working within care and residential homes, I am able to observe and account experiences of performances within different environments. I can compare my own experiences with that of other professionals I interview throughout my inquiry to get a balanced viewpoint.
What are the important considerations about the people and the culture of the organisation(s) that you work in (paid or unpaid) that the audience for your inquiry need to know about?
As discussed in previous blogs, working with vulnerable adults, it is vital all ethical considerations are carefully thought out. Anyone involved at all will be made aware of precautions and restrictions within the research.
Have you discussed this with your SIG and your professional network?
I have discussed this within my professional network (friends/peers) as I am intending to use them as part of the research within my inquiry. They understand the restrictions and ethical considerations within such a sensitive inquiry and are too looking forward to seeing the outcome of the research.
Having all these tools for research means you can really gain a huge amount of information about your chosen question, getting the best possible results!!
The Reader was extremely useful as it had thinking pints throughout, after each topic, helping me reflect on what I had just read. I felt it was useful to blog these thoughts to share them within my professional network and perhaps get some feedback on other peoples thoughts.
Analysing observations
What preparation do you need to do for your pilot observation?
As I wish to understand how people plan their entertainment sessions within care homes I will aim to record a rehearsal of some performers, along with another recorded interview afterwards. That way I can clearly see how they structure their shows and ask them what choices they make and why they make them.
Are there specific things on which you are focusing? How are you recording the data? Why?
Specifics-
*How Long are your shows and why?- grasps an idea of perfect session lengths.
* Song choices- eras, genres etc
* How to adapt to different spaces.
* What themes do you do? Which one works best? Why?
I will record this session using a video using a video device as I can then look back on the rehearsal process repeatedly, to ensure I capture all details of the session. I will then record these findings using qualities notes. As I am working with consenting adults at this point I will not need a gatekeeper.
Insider Researcher
What is your own position as an insider- researcher?
Working within care and residential homes, I am able to observe and account experiences of performances within different environments. I can compare my own experiences with that of other professionals I interview throughout my inquiry to get a balanced viewpoint.
What are the important considerations about the people and the culture of the organisation(s) that you work in (paid or unpaid) that the audience for your inquiry need to know about?
As discussed in previous blogs, working with vulnerable adults, it is vital all ethical considerations are carefully thought out. Anyone involved at all will be made aware of precautions and restrictions within the research.
Have you discussed this with your SIG and your professional network?
I have discussed this within my professional network (friends/peers) as I am intending to use them as part of the research within my inquiry. They understand the restrictions and ethical considerations within such a sensitive inquiry and are too looking forward to seeing the outcome of the research.
Having all these tools for research means you can really gain a huge amount of information about your chosen question, getting the best possible results!!
Monday 11 April 2016
Reader 6- food for thought.
Reader 6- quick questions
After going through Reader 6, I thought it would be useful to blog some of the thinking points, to gain feedback of anyone else who is researching similar topics.
How is professional inquiry similar to other professional activity in which you are involved?
As a freelance performer, it is important to carry out research in order to stay ahead of the game, knowing what work is out there and how I can create more opportunities within my professional life.
When beginning to work within care and residential homes, I asked many other performers who do the same thing, for advice and tips for how to set things up. This is an informal way of collecting data as I was almost interviewing them with questions that would help me within my area of work.
I also looked up other companies who entertain within residential homes, to grasp pricing, times and structures of their business in order to fit in the market, whilst being a competitive price for shows.
Do you search and review sources from literature, gathering information for decision making?
I often look at articles about music therapy, blogs and magazine articles both on and offline to gain more knowledge about my chosen line of work. Whilst I do not formally review them, I take notes of anything I feel will be beneficial for me. For example I am now looking to expand from just shows, to more interactive classes and sessions incorporating dance and song, therefore I keep up to date with groups such as the Parkinson's dance group in association with the English ballet. They post interesting articles that would help me understand what is involved in their sessions and how I will be able to set them up myself.
Do you collect differing points of view in order to have a balanced viewpoint for which to make decisions?
Obviously the more people you talk to, the more opinions you hear, the broader your knowledge. Although I do have my own thoughts, I am always extremely open to hearing how others work and their opinions. I pride myself on being open minded as I feel you need to gain a balanced viewpoint to help you be more adaptable within your chosen field.
How is it different?
Before BAPP course! the researching and data collecting was quite spontaneous and informal- doing things as and when they come along. Since the inquiry, my skills have become more focused and structured, with the module readers helping me hone in on exactly what data to collect and which tools are helpful in gathering information.
After going through Reader 6, I thought it would be useful to blog some of the thinking points, to gain feedback of anyone else who is researching similar topics.
How is professional inquiry similar to other professional activity in which you are involved?
As a freelance performer, it is important to carry out research in order to stay ahead of the game, knowing what work is out there and how I can create more opportunities within my professional life.
When beginning to work within care and residential homes, I asked many other performers who do the same thing, for advice and tips for how to set things up. This is an informal way of collecting data as I was almost interviewing them with questions that would help me within my area of work.
I also looked up other companies who entertain within residential homes, to grasp pricing, times and structures of their business in order to fit in the market, whilst being a competitive price for shows.
Do you search and review sources from literature, gathering information for decision making?
I often look at articles about music therapy, blogs and magazine articles both on and offline to gain more knowledge about my chosen line of work. Whilst I do not formally review them, I take notes of anything I feel will be beneficial for me. For example I am now looking to expand from just shows, to more interactive classes and sessions incorporating dance and song, therefore I keep up to date with groups such as the Parkinson's dance group in association with the English ballet. They post interesting articles that would help me understand what is involved in their sessions and how I will be able to set them up myself.
Do you collect differing points of view in order to have a balanced viewpoint for which to make decisions?
Obviously the more people you talk to, the more opinions you hear, the broader your knowledge. Although I do have my own thoughts, I am always extremely open to hearing how others work and their opinions. I pride myself on being open minded as I feel you need to gain a balanced viewpoint to help you be more adaptable within your chosen field.
How is it different?
Before BAPP course! the researching and data collecting was quite spontaneous and informal- doing things as and when they come along. Since the inquiry, my skills have become more focused and structured, with the module readers helping me hone in on exactly what data to collect and which tools are helpful in gathering information.
Friday 1 April 2016
Task 5c
Task 5c
Reader 5- What I have learnt
Before going through Reader 5, my knowledge on ethics was quite limited, only briefly going over it in Module 1. I now have a much better understanding of the subject and how important it is in both my professional and personal life to abide by ethical practices that are put in place.
What is important to realise is ethics are not always black and white, but often there is a grey area of uncertainty. One must always question whether the acts they are carrying our are good and whether they are necessary. I have to constantly ask myself these questions when carrying out any investigations as I do not wish to upset or affect anyone's life negatively though my investigations. As the term 'ethics' originates from the Greek word 'ethos' (meaning character), it prompts me to question decisions I make and if it reflects my character in a good way. each if the three main contexts; personal, professional and organisational come into practice within my life, particularly when entertaining within care homes as it covers such a vast spectrum of people and circumstances.
Case Study 1 'Mid Staffordshire Inquiry Unhealthy System', raised many questions for me as it directly affected so many people's lives on a number of levels. How did all these top professionals not realise so many people were at risk? Why was a public inquiry denied? Who's door do these ethical responsibilities lie?
I think the ethical issues stand on all levels; personal, professional, organisational and even societal.
Personal- People were dying unnecessarily, under other peoples care who were consciously making decisions that directly effected them. Why did people in authority not know? If you are placed in that position of power, you have a moral responsibility to ensure people are as safe as possible. Francis has an obligation (personal and professional) to bring the situation to light to certify it won't happen again.
Professional- As a medical practice, supposedly holding one of the longest established ethical systems, where were these ethics during this time? This applies to the ethical values from the very bottom all the way to the top and the CEO of the NHS.
Organisational/ Societal- This issue lies deeper into the way the NHS is run. The NHS have no moral obligation to be honest when things go wrong. As one of the largest and most important systems in our country, I feel this is ethically wrong, particularly when people's health and lives are at stake. It is also interesting to know that community health councils were abolished over ten years ago, making it a struggle for patients voices to be heard.
Where do the limits for responsibility lie?
Predominantly for me I feel Nicholson and Bower are most responsible. As head of Mid Staff hospitals, they must have a clear overview of all operations throughout the staff; from healthcare workers,nurses and doctors to auditors and managers. If the 'pivotal cog' in a machine does not operate effectively, then how can the machine be expected to run efficiently?
However I do feel there are overlaps, as although it is largely their responsibility, they were not physically the ones looking after the patients. Therefore you would have to investigate the medical staff in the hospitals. It is difficult to decipher who is most to blame, and would need much more investigation to enable the whole truth to be resolved.
This case study was a very useful way to gain a better understanding of these issues and how it can filter through many levels. When conducting my own inquiry I must not only consider one platform e.g personal, but ensure all grounds are covered for a complete ethically responsible inquiry.
Evolution of ethics
'Most ancient thinkers, including Aristotle were concerned with the character of an individual. In considering this they would look at what makes a person good, or what virtues an individual could have.' After reading this section, I made a list of virtues that were relevant to myself, my professional life and how they could effect my career if I did not hold these values. Aristotle 'considered virtues to be mid-points between two extremes' so I found extremes of each virtue to find the mid point.
Virtue- Extremes
Confident---- reserved and arrogant
Hardworking---- lazy and workaholic
Approachable---- shy and overwhelming
Ambitious----settled and dreamer.
These are virtues I think are essential to be both a performer and working with people within care homes. I pride myself on being an honest caring person, who can be approached easily and provide a confident and professional performance.
Case study 2- photography in Ethics.
This photo, was a huge ethical dilemma which provoked many debates within the media and ethical arguments for years.
Having studied the different theoretical approaches to ethics I came up with points from each view to see how they differ.
Consequentialist View
* His role of an 'observing photographer' is irrelevant if another human life is at stake.
* The photographers were told not to approach anyone as there were risks of an epidemic and catching illnesses- a moral struggle of risking your safety for the life of another?
Deontologist View
* His action was wrong and he should have taken action and helped the dying girl rather than stand back and observe,
Virtue Ethicist View
* He was obviously guilty about his action. Does this mean because his morals were good, yet he had to obey rules means he did the right thing?
This case study demonstrates the battle between professional boundaries and what is morally right. I have learnt the different approaches to ethics and depending on your theoretical viewpoint, the ethics can change and have a completely different point of view. It poses an important question about what you choose to show on social media. What may be an interesting or thought provoking to one person, could be highly offensive to another.
Case Study 3- The Dance class
This was obviously useful as it directly related to my profession, and by analysing this case I could break down clearly what ethical issues occur everyday in the performing arts industry.
The issues raised in this case were;
* Teachers only spending one minute on warm ups- not good for students health and well being. Also teaching them bad habits.
* When interviewing the school owner- they said they were running a business, having to pay rents and earning money. What the teachers do in the class is 'their business' and 'a full studio is better than an empty one'. Business interests come before teaching standards.
* Teacher 2- Belittled one dancer and the whole class ignored it. When he was interviewed he said 'I am only preparing her for the real world, if she can't survive a bit of criticism in my class she is not going to last long in a dance company'
Descriptive ethics-
No warm ups run the risk of injury. Bullying/singling someone out is a bad teaching method. Not caring he may have upset someone, lack of compassion which is a desirable trait for a teacher to have.
Theoretical Normative Ethics-
Being a bully is a bad virtue, therefore singling someone out and being negative, no matter what the intention is wrong. He could have communicated in a more positive and professional manner. I feel in this instance it is ethically wrong as it will humiliate and single out the dancer, lowering her self esteem.
However you could argue this teaching method is ethical on the grounds he actually has good intentions of preparing her for the real world. Relativism comes into this as sometimes the performance industry is tough, and often it is deemed acceptable to be shouted at and not be considered a bully. I personally feel, as a teacher myself, there are far better approaches than being unnecessarily harsh on someone.
Overall this Reader clarified just how important attention to detail is regarding ethics within an inquiry. Along with the previous device, I now know many codes of conduct and systems that help me conduct a responsible inquiry that will be beneficial to myself and also the people involved.
Reader 5- What I have learnt
Before going through Reader 5, my knowledge on ethics was quite limited, only briefly going over it in Module 1. I now have a much better understanding of the subject and how important it is in both my professional and personal life to abide by ethical practices that are put in place.
What is important to realise is ethics are not always black and white, but often there is a grey area of uncertainty. One must always question whether the acts they are carrying our are good and whether they are necessary. I have to constantly ask myself these questions when carrying out any investigations as I do not wish to upset or affect anyone's life negatively though my investigations. As the term 'ethics' originates from the Greek word 'ethos' (meaning character), it prompts me to question decisions I make and if it reflects my character in a good way. each if the three main contexts; personal, professional and organisational come into practice within my life, particularly when entertaining within care homes as it covers such a vast spectrum of people and circumstances.
Case Study 1 'Mid Staffordshire Inquiry Unhealthy System', raised many questions for me as it directly affected so many people's lives on a number of levels. How did all these top professionals not realise so many people were at risk? Why was a public inquiry denied? Who's door do these ethical responsibilities lie?
I think the ethical issues stand on all levels; personal, professional, organisational and even societal.
Personal- People were dying unnecessarily, under other peoples care who were consciously making decisions that directly effected them. Why did people in authority not know? If you are placed in that position of power, you have a moral responsibility to ensure people are as safe as possible. Francis has an obligation (personal and professional) to bring the situation to light to certify it won't happen again.
Professional- As a medical practice, supposedly holding one of the longest established ethical systems, where were these ethics during this time? This applies to the ethical values from the very bottom all the way to the top and the CEO of the NHS.
Organisational/ Societal- This issue lies deeper into the way the NHS is run. The NHS have no moral obligation to be honest when things go wrong. As one of the largest and most important systems in our country, I feel this is ethically wrong, particularly when people's health and lives are at stake. It is also interesting to know that community health councils were abolished over ten years ago, making it a struggle for patients voices to be heard.
Where do the limits for responsibility lie?
Predominantly for me I feel Nicholson and Bower are most responsible. As head of Mid Staff hospitals, they must have a clear overview of all operations throughout the staff; from healthcare workers,nurses and doctors to auditors and managers. If the 'pivotal cog' in a machine does not operate effectively, then how can the machine be expected to run efficiently?
However I do feel there are overlaps, as although it is largely their responsibility, they were not physically the ones looking after the patients. Therefore you would have to investigate the medical staff in the hospitals. It is difficult to decipher who is most to blame, and would need much more investigation to enable the whole truth to be resolved.
This case study was a very useful way to gain a better understanding of these issues and how it can filter through many levels. When conducting my own inquiry I must not only consider one platform e.g personal, but ensure all grounds are covered for a complete ethically responsible inquiry.
Evolution of ethics
'Most ancient thinkers, including Aristotle were concerned with the character of an individual. In considering this they would look at what makes a person good, or what virtues an individual could have.' After reading this section, I made a list of virtues that were relevant to myself, my professional life and how they could effect my career if I did not hold these values. Aristotle 'considered virtues to be mid-points between two extremes' so I found extremes of each virtue to find the mid point.
Virtue- Extremes
Confident---- reserved and arrogant
Hardworking---- lazy and workaholic
Approachable---- shy and overwhelming
Ambitious----settled and dreamer.
These are virtues I think are essential to be both a performer and working with people within care homes. I pride myself on being an honest caring person, who can be approached easily and provide a confident and professional performance.
Case study 2- photography in Ethics.
This photo, was a huge ethical dilemma which provoked many debates within the media and ethical arguments for years.
Having studied the different theoretical approaches to ethics I came up with points from each view to see how they differ.
Consequentialist View
* His role of an 'observing photographer' is irrelevant if another human life is at stake.
* The photographers were told not to approach anyone as there were risks of an epidemic and catching illnesses- a moral struggle of risking your safety for the life of another?
Deontologist View
* His action was wrong and he should have taken action and helped the dying girl rather than stand back and observe,
Virtue Ethicist View
* He was obviously guilty about his action. Does this mean because his morals were good, yet he had to obey rules means he did the right thing?
This case study demonstrates the battle between professional boundaries and what is morally right. I have learnt the different approaches to ethics and depending on your theoretical viewpoint, the ethics can change and have a completely different point of view. It poses an important question about what you choose to show on social media. What may be an interesting or thought provoking to one person, could be highly offensive to another.
Case Study 3- The Dance class
This was obviously useful as it directly related to my profession, and by analysing this case I could break down clearly what ethical issues occur everyday in the performing arts industry.
The issues raised in this case were;
* Teachers only spending one minute on warm ups- not good for students health and well being. Also teaching them bad habits.
* When interviewing the school owner- they said they were running a business, having to pay rents and earning money. What the teachers do in the class is 'their business' and 'a full studio is better than an empty one'. Business interests come before teaching standards.
* Teacher 2- Belittled one dancer and the whole class ignored it. When he was interviewed he said 'I am only preparing her for the real world, if she can't survive a bit of criticism in my class she is not going to last long in a dance company'
Descriptive ethics-
No warm ups run the risk of injury. Bullying/singling someone out is a bad teaching method. Not caring he may have upset someone, lack of compassion which is a desirable trait for a teacher to have.
Theoretical Normative Ethics-
Being a bully is a bad virtue, therefore singling someone out and being negative, no matter what the intention is wrong. He could have communicated in a more positive and professional manner. I feel in this instance it is ethically wrong as it will humiliate and single out the dancer, lowering her self esteem.
However you could argue this teaching method is ethical on the grounds he actually has good intentions of preparing her for the real world. Relativism comes into this as sometimes the performance industry is tough, and often it is deemed acceptable to be shouted at and not be considered a bully. I personally feel, as a teacher myself, there are far better approaches than being unnecessarily harsh on someone.
Overall this Reader clarified just how important attention to detail is regarding ethics within an inquiry. Along with the previous device, I now know many codes of conduct and systems that help me conduct a responsible inquiry that will be beneficial to myself and also the people involved.
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