Observing is learning...

After criticising the usefulness of the inquiry tool and technique of observation within my proposal, I can now see how effective and crucial it has actually become in implementing data gathering within my inquiry. When learning of this tool I was merely able to use it to analyse videos, rather than being involved in the actual situation, therefore evaluating it as unbeneficial to my inquiry process. However, due to a positive change in circumstance of which I can continue exploring my inquiry, I have been 'learning on the job', essentially observing, at every given opportunity. I have therefore been using this tool in two different situations to gain depth in knowledge and understanding between the similarities and differences between the two professions - dance and media (particularly television). Here is what I have observed and found so far:

Researcher Participant Observation -What I have learnt?
During my work experience week I was exposed to the 'office' and ideas side of what goes into a television show. Here I found my learnings to be more about the 'technicalities' and specialised skills. A lot of it was relative to thinking on your feet and adapting, a quality I am familiar with, however when it can to the skill of film making and editing I realised this was definitely something to be learned over time. Though irrelevant to dance, in terms of personal strengths audio editing is something I have previously been taught (still for purpose of dance), so could show a greater understanding to what I was being exposed to. Though interesting it did not fully prepare me for the fast paced atmosphere show day can provide. This feeling of anticipation and essentially nerves is very much what we as dancers experience before we step on stage either in a performance or audition situation, therefore being a feeling I was use to and could control. Since completing my work experience week I have worked on the live show every Saturday picking up what can essentially be entitled 'runners skills'. More than retrieving drinks and food orders I have gained the confidence to look after special guests, something I never envisioned having a problem with. Learning the 'ropes' in terms of how a studio is run - the hierarchy as such. What floor managers require, keeping out the way of cameras, ensuring accurate timings and always being on hand if a prop is missing. In reflecting upon these skills I can now see how apt in experience one of the article I previously reviewed revealed - 'The 'runner' behind the industry...'  The journey in myself is very evident in the way I can now operate with confidence and a great sense of direction. This observation takes place every week and is proving to be a key building block within my discoveries.

Covert Observation -What I can see/learn around me?
Being an onlooker throughout my time with the team has been incredible to learn from. It has enabled me to see all the specialised skills that, though learnable, are far more relevant and applicable to television. Taking one live show in isolation, I can watch the presenters identify their professionalism in camera techniques and dealing with a live audience, together with the thousands watching on the other side of 'the box'. Watching how it is all pieced together in the gallery is also truly fascinating. It is a process of which involves the producer, script writer and a few other technically minded 'job titled' others. I have learnt that the auto-cue is key in joining all these feature together. Without the accurate running of this, the programme timing falls to pieces, and the live show would not run. Another feature I can see is how the whole team interact and feature upon the show - however this is a skill I can very much relate to through performance work of my own. The bond between the team ensures the smooth and comedic value to the show, yet can prove to be very hard work.

I am lucky enough that I can continue these observations out each week, and by keeping a reflective record in my own journal, when my data comes to be fully analysed I have an invaluable journey to review. Though I know interpreting the method of observation in this way is not applicable to all situations, I am finding that my topic involving 'career transitions' is all about the process and learning over time. Therefore I feel if I can shed light on my own growth and research development, I will be able to provide a more informed response to what I am inquiring about, for both personal and shared beneficial advice.