Michael Erauts typology of non-formal learning has given me a useful framework within which to think about researchable questions. I like Martyn Denscombes idea that I might try to set up questions, which forecast some outcome. But I don’t really want to spend time arguing about the meanings of non-formal or informal questions.
My inclination at this point is to plan and undertake research into a particular and real as opposed to theoretical business matter. What I have in mind is associated with the expansion of a dance business where I teach on a part time basis.
I am encouraged by the mention of a business issue in the course reader being a suitable issue for research. However some of the preliminary questions I need to answer are –
* Why am I doing this particular course?
* What aspect of performing arts do I want to concentrate my career on?
* Do I want to specialise at this early stage of my career?
* Do I want to include teaching as an aspect of my career?
* Can I find enough other members with similar projects on the course to form a SIG?
* What are my expectations of discussing these questions with other course members?
* Can I get the agreement of my dance studio, to support my research?
* Can I find a project, which can be done with the limited time and other resources I have?
* Do I possess (or can I acquire) the necessary business skills to make a success of the enquiry?
* In the normal course a real business problem would handled by a multi-disciplinary team, so can I limit the scope of my project in a way, which will give me a chance to make it a success?
I would appreciate comments from other course members who may be having similar concerns, and from university staff who might be able to guide me towards a suitable issue to enquire into.
Hi Verity. I think your inclination towards an inquiry topic based on a real business issue/problem is a great direction to head in. I too am thinking along these lines - whilst there are many theoretical questions I find interesting about my profession, I believe this course will ultimately be of most use to me if I use it as an opportunity to develop the practical skills I need to advance in my career. With regards to setting up a SIG, I am sure we could participate in one together as we both act. Please come and comment on the facebook SIG I set up - it's called 'Theatre, tv & film' so very broad. I am sure we can help each other and get some interesting discussions going.
ReplyDeleteI was interested in your question about possessing/acquiring business skills. The course reader made me think about the fact that we need to be inter/transdisciplinary in our line of work. Learning business skills could potentially give us the freedom to practice our profession in different ways (perhaps by setting up our own theatre company or school) as well as the ability to market ourselves and manage affairs as a business enterprise.
Hi Stephanie. I completely agree with the statement that this course should ultimately be used to advance in our careers and likewise want to concentrate on the business side of the industry. I feel this would enable me to understand the possible routes of opening a dance/ theatre school in the future.
ReplyDeleteI have tried searching for your group 'Theatre, tv & film' on Facebook but can't seem to find it! the link you posted on my pervious blog doesn't seem to work either please could you try and send it again as I am really interested to start interacting with you on your page.
Verity