2c: Reflective Practice

Given that I spent the majority of last week in training for my work outside of the artistic world, it has been very interesting looking further into the unique process each mind takes when approaching learning from experience. This growth being one of the most important aspects in the progression of the brain and therefore of our entire existence.

It would be wrong to try and pinpoint the moment in each of our lives where we began the process of "learn by experience" as it will of been from birth itself. An example of this being that as a child, we fall a lot, even from merely standing,  the reason for this ranging from bad footing to over excitement. But do you find yourself falling as often now? If yes my deepest apologies but I'm almost certain it is a resounding no in most cases. The reason for this change being because as we have grown, we have learnt from experience how to be in control of our bodies. Progression to numerous ranges of movement including, in my case, dance choreography.

I remember  all too well taking some form of test so that we could discover our suited style of learning. Given to me in the categories of Visual, Audio and Kinesthetic so that we could revise with which ever process worked best for us for upcoming exams. This "V.A.K" unknown to me, being a break down created by Howard Gardner. Also being a fine example of being aware of a concept without knowing of it's origins.

In line with the notion that different learning techniques are beneficial to people dependant on their learning ability, David Kolb created a "Learning cycle". The cycle rotates between the main categories of "Acting...Valuing...Thinking...Deciding" to visually describe the steps that take place with gaining knowledge. What was interesting is that the one of the main reasons for him creating this cycle was that there is no first step in the process. Looking at the diagram we can decide where it is we each in fact start to learn and in turn continue the rest of the cycle in order. This being done usually completely subconsciously. Upon examining the diagram I came to the conclusion that my first step would be valuing. This section of the cycle breaks down to "Compare it with reality" and "Identify differences (problems)" as well as confirming the style of my learning is mainly "Reflective Observation" also known as visual learning.

I did, however, completely agree with the theories of Gardner who refers to learning styles as "lenses". Stating that it would be incorrect to label oneself to a singular learning style but instead embrace all possible procedures when learning from our experiences. Using the different methods as tools rather than a restriction. Being a dancer, I find this theory extremely important as improving movement and remembering choreography, indispensable skills in professional dance, would not be possible without the accumulation of various learning mechanisms. Although this is of course only necessarily true in my learning experience.

Both Donald Schon and Robert Kottcamp have discussed the theory of there being a specific difference between the learning that comes from having to immediately react within an experience, and being given the time the explore and adjust in order to improve. This being referred to as "Reflection-in-action" or "On-Line" and "Reflection-on-action" or "Off-Line" learning. Reflection-in- action being most suitable to myself as it refers to the example of having to change course or steps where appropriate when put into a live performing situation. An academic, however, needs the time to analyse and adjust work, just as I am having to do when writing this blog. This really brought to me a realisation that the type of learning that is most beneficial to a person will defer with their profession, and sometimes adapting to the profession might mean trying to adapt learning styles accordingly.

The reference of Tacit Knowledge, meaning a knowledge that is not possible to be conveyed through written or spoken word could not be more true in the performing arts world. Twyla Tharp's connection of Tacit Knowledge and "Muscle Memory" being a perfect example. Tharp's statement; "...movement doesn't need to accessed through conscious effort" is one that I am sure most performers would agree with. It is hard to describe how it is possible for ones body to work or move without specifically thinking about what mechanics are needed to achieve it, but it is a skill we manage to accomplish in the early stages of our training.

In terms of learning choreography, muscle memory also plays a huge part. Every dancer will have their own personal way of storing choreographic information, this being in relation to their prefered learning style. I have always benefited most from viewing a movement before repeating and eventually writing it down in the shortest form possible for future reference. In my recent work with a ballet company, for example, I was employed to learn all roles of the ballet and so I could not merely rely on muscle memory. In terms of my academic learning, and indeed getting to grips with new writing styles such as a blog, I have always been one to learn better by example. Researching into others work and with that finding my personal approach and strengths.

Reflecting on all aspects of our lives would be impossible to escape, but it is how we take these findings forward in the most valuable way that defines our professional and personal lives for both present and future. This notion being one I have never really considered to be as crucial and has definitely prompted me to be more critical of my experiences.