Saturday 7 May 2016

Changes to inquiry tools

 A conversation with Paula led me too reconsider my original proposed data collection tool 'Questionnaires/surveys'. We discussed the reasons behind my decisions and upon reflection concluded that they lacked clarity and were unnecessary to my inquiry.

Original Proposal

'Questionnaires/Surveys
 I plan too create a questionnaire compiled of precise questions relating too my inquiry topic.  It is crucial FOR ME TOO CONSIDER Reflexivity and remain objective when structuring questions in order for my data to be valid during the analytical stage.  "A researcher's background and position will affect what they choose to investigate, the angle of investigation, the methods judged most adequate for this purpose, the findings considered most appropriate, and the framing and communication of conclusions" (Malterud, 2001, p. 483-484).
I will select a variety of both closed questions and questions allowing the participant too choose from a choice of declarations or a blank space allowing participants too openly answer the question written. Despite being aware that my findings will lack depth, I will make use of data in terms of breadth. This will enable me too study peoples perception of Musical Theatre and their methods of creating character in terms of their professional medium on a much larger scale. I will conduct a pilot questionnaire to establish questions that are gaining irrelevant responses or could be perceived as misleading.  I plan too utilize my knowledge of professional networking and web 2:0 when handing out my questionnaire. Professionals are local; I will hand out my questionnaires face to face; if this is not feasible

I will keep my questionnaire web based using sites such as survey monkey as the vast majority of professionals have access too the internet.
Providing A sampling frame, similar too the diagram below, will be put into place too ensure I have sufficient numbers of representatives ‘in categories or variables of specific interest’ Reader 5, page 24

I will take a qualitative and quantitative approach too analyzing data from surveys, firstly it is essential for me too create an easy too follow numerical coding system. Secondly I will use ‘Survey Monkey’ to analyse my coded data or create a spreadsheet if my surveys where handed out on paper. I will then review questions with open responses in a qualitative manner too reflect on occurring trends and the reasoning behind them. For example:

‘Do you believe there is a stigma surrounding Musical Theatre’?
1. Yes
2. No
3. Unsure
Please give reasoning for your answer……..

The above question will not only provide me with insight too peoples perceptions but also provide me with background knowledge of how the perception came about' Laura Gregory, 2016


Keeping a journal of my practice and experiences throughout the transition from Musical Theatre performer too acting for Drama will be vital to my inquiry, in order for me too make this personal journey. I will record all professional experiences and conversations and later evaluate my findings  in order too establish any development. 

Observation is a tool of which I initially ruled out of my inquiry, however since reviewing reader 6 for a second time, I realised it could be extremely useful. Below are the merits and limitations of using observations as a data collection method in relation to my inquiry.

Merits: 
  • Qualitative visual data
  • Experience first hand how rehearsals or performances differ in different mediums
  • Different methods to record observations
  • Examine physical behavior
Limitations:
  • Time consuming
  • Lots of ethical considerations