We were introduced to the Shieldfield project as a class and spent some time deciding what we would like to research. I knew that I wanted to research something with a strong visual base, as this is what I feel most comfortable with. I was happy with my decision to research the borders and boundaries of Shieldfield as I am comfortable with reading maps and have always been fascinated by the way the experience of the physical world is translated onto paper. I was unsure of how my project would work out as I had spent three years practicing essay writing and this was a new way of working, but I felt positive about it and knew that even if I did not succeed in drawing conclusions, I would definitely enjoy the research process.
I began with a set of questions that I wished to have answered by the end, but soon realised that I would need to be more flexible. I did begin to loose hope at one point when I wasn’t finding any definitive answers, but then after analysing the 1770 map and actually finding some definitive answers (the border stones and the street plan) I saw that actually I could be a little less rigid in my approach. I think for this loose way of coming to conclusions to have worked better, I could have read more on the theories to do with borders and identity – as this would have given me a little more conviction in what I was saying and therefore solidified my research, but overall I feel happy with the things that I have found.
Research is always my favourite part of an assignment and so I have thoroughly enjoyed this module. However as mentioned I think I could have improved the way I drew conclusions, which I found quite difficult as the topic of borders and boundaries in relation to the history and identity of place is a vague area.
Presenting the research in the format of a blog has been an interesting experience: I began to present in the form of a booklet but it didn't flow well as I place heavy emphasis on images and maps. Also, the slideshow does not translate well into static images and looks much better as a multimedia element. This has taught me to think about the way I present work, as different kinds of work demand different forms of presentation. This I had not considered much before.
The collective aspect of this module, the new research methods, new methods of presenting and new ways of thinking have made it a worthwhile and enjoyable experience, reminding me to keep an open mind and not get stuck in my ways. It has also been fantastic to feel like part of an actual project that relates to the university and the local area. A great way to finish the course.
Presenting the research in the format of a blog has been an interesting experience: I began to present in the form of a booklet but it didn't flow well as I place heavy emphasis on images and maps. Also, the slideshow does not translate well into static images and looks much better as a multimedia element. This has taught me to think about the way I present work, as different kinds of work demand different forms of presentation. This I had not considered much before.
The collective aspect of this module, the new research methods, new methods of presenting and new ways of thinking have made it a worthwhile and enjoyable experience, reminding me to keep an open mind and not get stuck in my ways. It has also been fantastic to feel like part of an actual project that relates to the university and the local area. A great way to finish the course.
