4a: Mapping out my inquiry

After reviewing the branches of inquiries I concluded with in Module 1, I have decided to focus on ‘The Perfect Learning Environment’ route;

·         What is the perfect learning environment in Professional Dance?

·         What is the perfect learning environment in and out the workplace?

·         What is a learning organization?

·         How do people learn?

·         Is experiential learning key to finding the perfect learning environment?

·         How do you know if you are in your ideal learning environment?

Thinking about how I may answer these questions, I realise the contrasting environments I have been in, how they have differed from each other and how and why I have had to adjust, not to ‘fit in’, but more importantly to ensure I get the best learning experience and knowledge out of it. Moving from an all girls’ private school to Tring was a massive change for me as from the age of 5 I grew up in a very academic environment with dance just being my hobby. Moving to a performing arts school at 16 my after-school and weekend hobby was to become my life goal. After spending 3 years in this environment I was more than happy to leave, and I became a full member with Chrysalis London who I am currently dancing with. Personally for me, I love being in an environment where people are continuously learning from each other; whether this be a valid life lesson, the way someone executes a dance step, or observing that special quality someone has that makes them stand out. I think there are many aspects to what a ‘perfect learning environment’ should be, but every individual relates to things and learns in a different and unique way.

So what do I intend on doing to further my research? I plan on talking to people that are involved in both similar and different environments, for example I could talk to my parents who are both teachers at primary and secondary schools as well as Jodie Blemings, the director of Chrysalis. I also intend on talking to some of the company members. Whether my research will result in finding differing views in the same environment or vice versa, I am very interested in seeing what the common links will be as well as the ones that separate one 'perfect' environment from another.

I decided to do a brainstorm of ideas that could be helpful with my inquiry (Pictured below):

Making A Start on Module 2

I think I’m definitely one of those people that reads a lot of information at once and has PANIC as my first reaction but I’ve decided to take a different approach to Module 2. Rather than stress and rush my work or get things done at the last minute, I want to be able to have a process of studying that allows me to use my time wisely and to take advantage of asking for help or getting help when offered.

After going through Reader 4 and the Handbook, I do have many questions I want to ask, but already having some sort of idea of my Professional Inquiry has definitely helped. I understand that Module 2 is a combination of using researched information, trial and error and reflection; where by using these tools I will shape and mould my research in order to aid me develop my lines of inquiry.

Unfortunately I was unable to attend the online session but from reading the very helpful blogs from the people that attended the discussion, many questions I had been worrying about were answered and I now feel I have a much clearer understanding of what Module 2 will involve.  

Although I am feeling a little apprehensive I do look forward to getting started, as the quote goes...

'The secret of getting ahead is getting started!'