It's been a bit tricky motivating myself to write another blog post, mainly because I've been reveling in the freedom of being FINISHED!!! Well, I say finished but who knows. If I find out in February I've been awarded a massive fail then I'll be back at square one. (But I'm hoping this won't be the case of course!)
I will be contemplating the meaning of 'finished', but first I just wanted to discuss the experience of the final presentations which took place from all of us Module 3s. I honestly felt so proud of all of my peers who gave absolutely excellent performances. I found myself being encapsulated with every person's individual story- so indicative of how each journey has been customised in a unique way.
As well as different topics of inquiry, the areas of learning that each student acknowledged were entirely relevant to their own experiences across the past 18 months. Each individual has grown in an area they never know required expanse, whilst the demonstration of open mind thinking is a formative progression from the initial, frightened newbies we once were!
My favourite aspect of each display, was the final revealing of the artefact- concepts I'd heard about over our skype discussions but it was wonderful to see all of the final products in the flesh. The alternative ways of presenting knowledge demonstrated a celebration of creativity, from songs which had been composed, to children's books which had been illustrated, to artistic sculptures, to choreographed dances with spoken word. Although the process of the presentations was spread over two whole days, the time just flew by.
Before I knew it, Adesola and Helen were closing with their final words.
BUT.
It's not goodbye forever. Much like the continual processes I have become accustomed to in this course, merely shutting the door to BAPP would be a great injustice to all that has been learnt. One of the main takeaway messages from my journey has been the importance in making connections; Where new ways of thinking can be applied to situations in practice. Reflection, change, and self observation are skills I will take with me eternally going forwards.
Furthermore, features like keeping this blogpage and sharing utterances via Web 2.0 networks are vital in the process of reflection. As we know, knowledge is made in communities of other thinkers and it would be such a shame to eject myself from such a community when I have learnt a wealth of information from others.
Ultimately, yes, this degree requires a certain amount of academic submissions. But the purpose of their completion is not to solely get an approval mark from an examiner. The activities are there to help one develop as a practitioner so that eventually, the skills can be transferred into everyday experience.
But how does this work?
For instance, the areas of revelation in my inquiry were thoughts such as 'would using verbal communication with students as feedback, rather than just assessing their physical progress, be a better marker of their wellbeing?'. Therefore in my teaching practice I have now implemented a check in at the start and end of class which I deem as beneficial. Just the chance to give some encouraging words through this pandemic or to give students a space to have a brief chat before their training, which allows some emotional connection. My hope is that it gives the dancers a voice, or at least- Introduces the idea that they are worthy of having one.
I'm also less chained to keeping my lesson plans set in stone. It may be that I notice the children are becoming disengaged (a common occurance over Zoom!). A year ago I would have felt nervous to stray from the exercises I'd had listed in my session notes, but now I am more able to courageously reflect in action- try something different. Maybe do a quick game. Ask a question. Offer something unexpected. This has only been possible because of all my research, and subsequently the development of my thinking processes.
Another aspect I have been thinking about is the benefit of support from others. This is something I always find very hard to seek out. I wonder whether much of this is down to being self employed from which I have adopted the cemented stance of fierce independence. Almost as though it demonstrates strength.
In fact, the reality is quite the opposite and rather a great amount of courage is required to demonstrate vulnerability in asking for help. Many of my own battles have arisen because I have remained so determined to be isolated. I suppose it's also 'safer' to keep the messiness of feelings or prospects of judgement at bay. Performers are wonderful at putting on a mask.........
But the BAPP processes have challenged many of those pre-conceived beliefs. I have realised that there is strength in numbers, that we are social creatures and that despite the pandemic, humans will always find a way to assimilate. Plenty can be gained from observing others, how people think, how they work. It's incredibly humbling to realise that what I may see is entirely different to what someone else could see. As Wayne Dwyer says:
Figure 1: Wayne Dwyer Quote: Perspective
Therefore, there has been a strong encouragement for us as a module group to continue in our connections to the course and we are hoping to brainstorm ways in which this can be facilitated. Rather than us graduate students dropping off the face of the earth, it would be hugely beneficial for us all to keep documenting our journeys going forwards. Not only will this cement the awareness of the continual learning/reflective cycle, but I know that I certainly would have benifitted during module 1 from being able to hear from any BAPP alumni!
I think the emergence of our Professional Practice Facebook group will be a platform which enables the discussions to continue. It will also be our responsibility as students to maintain our personal blogs by habitiually posting regular content. I do intend to commit to that so watch this space!
So all in all? I am left with a mix of emotions as things stand at the 'end' of my studies.
Relief, admiration for others, contentment, apprehension, curiosity......but primarily; gratitude. For the opportunity to learn, for the wonderful people I have met, and for the commitment to ongoing professional development within my practice. Hopefully thus becoming an ever improving teacher, student, administrator, dancer, choreographer, and emerging (reflective) mind.
References
Dwyer, W. (n.d.). Wayne Dwyer quote. [Digital image]. Retrieved January 16, 2021, from https://www.pinterest.co.uk/pin/294985844314922623/