Task 3d Critical Questions and issues that emerge

Task 3d 

Critical Questions and issues that emerge

Does some very specific ideas emerge about your networking and sources? Does your engagement to date seem appropriate? Limited? Focused? Planned? Unplanned? 

Before beginning this module I would only ever reflect internally when it came to what I had done. I would use Web 2.0, and communicating with others in a similar professional practice. However, now, I have developed an understanding of the importance of networking and current networks. I should elaborate on them which is what I am currently doing, in terms of creating a Linked in and updating my website with recent photos and blog posts. I am now much more confident with networking and am no longer afraid to put myself in situations where I will be meeting new people to network and make connections with. 

Are your ideas, position or concerns shared by others within and/or beyond your professional area of work?

Looking at the blogs of others enrolled in the BAPP arts course I can see that I share many ideas with other students with regards to sources of information. Many of us use books, magazines and the internet and I have even noticed that myself and a couple of others read the same blog website. A particular article from the website was on social media and the question 'how much is too much?’, here I was able to question my personal views, relate to my peers and give my opinion on the topic. This was extremely useful as I was connecting with people within my profession thus resulting in a rewarding and detailed discussion. 

Does sharing and communicating with others shift your thinking planning or practice?

I often feel that when communicating my ideas with others they tend to have the same or a very similar opinion in terms of the industry. This is actually extremely useful as I gain new insights into the given concept and can dig deeper into my thoughts. Prior to performing I frequently get nervous I have found that if I speak to a colleague who has a very laid back attitude and persona that I become much less nervous as I am taking in their feelings. By sharing my nerves I am able to shift them away and in turn share the relaxation of my peers. 

Does critical reflection help you decide what really matters and the actions to take?

I believe that it is important to never stop questioning what you are doing within your practice. It may not necessarily help you solely decide what actions to take but it definitely enables you to weigh up the pros and cons. Through the use of critical reflection I have been able to evaluate my current restrictions as a professional and focus on improving them. 

To what extent do concepts and theories assist you in thinking about your professional networking in different ways? And do these different ways of thinking have some purpose for you?

The concepts and theories that I have studied in Part 3 of Module 1 have most definitely assisted myself when it comes to professional networking. The concept of cooperation and affiliation have been extremely beneficial and I feel as though prior to commencing this course I certainly took them for granted. For example, Howard Gardner's Multiple Intelligence's (2008) have made me truly reassess deeper into what it is to actually learn. It makes me think about the bigger picture or ‘end goal’ which has helped me specifically when choreographing as I am able to envision my entire process. I have found I now spend less time on trying to understand why something isn’t working and instead move on to create something else. 

Are you left thinking differently prior to this part of the module? And if so, how?

Prior to starting the BAPP arts course I was aware that professional networking was important in the dance industry but I certainly was not aware of the extent of this. Now I am aware that frequent participation within my current networks is vital; simply keeping active on social media will engage my target audience and open upon further opportunities within my field of work. I am also aware of what is the most appropriate for myself to post with regards to impressing future employers and certainly have a different take on how I will run my social media. I feel extremely inspired and have found Part 3 extremely refreshing! 

Module one has been incredibly eye opening and admittedly I never thought I would be learning in such detail about something I am so passionate about (social media). I have discovered so much about myself both personally and professionally and certainly have a new lease of life when it comes to my professional practice. I look forward to seeing what Module 2 brings! 

Bibliography 

https://www.impactbnd.com/blog/are-you-posting-too-much-on-social-media
https://books.google.ca/books/about/Multiple_Intelligences.html?id=8K54fg6YU4EC