Alys May-James BA Professional Practice Blog

Where has the time gone? I can't believe we are in April already, nearing the end of module 3. It is getting close to draft deadlines which I think is a stressful time for many people, including myself. I find myself wondering if what I've done is right or any good. Although it seems fairly common to feel this way, I think it is also really important to look back at what we have accomplished so far. The work we have produced, the new skills we have learnt, all whilst we are in the middle of a pandemic! The fact we have continued on through this and done the best we can in this situation, is something to be proud of. So although this time is stressful, remember to take time for yourself and think how far you've come. Especially in more stressful situations it is important to take time for ourselves. I have found sometimes it is more productive to step away from the work and come back to it later with a fresh perspective. Personally I think walking and yoga are amazing for cl...

The last few months I have been collecting my data on the use of touch and dance ready for analysis. I decided to use thematic analysis with triangulation to find the common, emerging themes across my data. Having found several themes through my literature research, my interviews and my own experiences, I decided to start mapping out these themes. However, when it came to writing them in my research report I was struggling with how to structure my findings. I felt like I had gathered so much information but I didn't know what to do with it once I'd analysed it. Below is a video that I found really helpful for the layout and structure on presenting my themes in my research report.   Here are some of the main points I have taken away from this video: Be clear  State what the research is about and then explain the themes that have come from the research.  It is personal preference how you lay out your findings  Separate your themes into different sections...

As my research is focused around touch and dance, contact improvisation has been of great interest to me. Below is a video I have watched and analysed as part of my research.  Contact Improvisation is a form of dancing that requires touch. The whole art form is created around people moving together and being connected physically. This physical connection allows for a constant flow of information between the bodies involved.  This means that not only are we being physically touched, but also mentally. It gives permission for us to move in the moment, without judgement of what is right and wrong. The focus is on the information we are giving and receiving,  which allows for freedom of body, mind and spirit.  I would love to hear what you think about this video.  Bibliography   Video available at:  We Rise and Fall Together | Contact Improv | Nathan Dryden | TEDxSaltLakeCity - YouTube  (Accessed 27/03/2021)