[Last modified: October, 30 2024 02:11 PM]
Based on your notes, write a 400 text that renders the atmosphere, with emphasis on the main keywords you identified as the most interesting. You can accompany the text with the sketches that you have made while in the field. Reflect on the relation between the experience of taking notes, identifying the main story you want to tell, and on how the notes helped your memory.
My two classmates and I conducted fieldwork at the Tavistock bus stop betweenRussell Square and Euston. We expected to interact with people at the bus stop, but after sitting there for some time, we realized it was only for tourist buses. As a result, we focused mainly on observing people across the street and the surrounding environment. The note-taking experience was relaxed, as doing it together made it feel like a normal activity, reducing any embarrassment. The presence of three of us changed the dynamic—any onlookers seemed less likely to question our behavior, and the semi-enclosed bus stop provided a level of disguise, allowing us to observe without drawing much attention.
To the right of the bus stop is a hotel, where a family stood outside for a long time. The child kept climbing up and down her father, seeking his attention and hugs, though he appeared tired and tried to put her down gently without upsetting her. Observing them, I was struck by the subtle “push and pull” dynamic, revealing aspects of kinship as the parents managed their roles, balancing interaction with their child and the demands of travel in a foreign country. In contrast, the child seemed carefree, focused only on her immediate needs, oblivious to the complexities her parents navigated.
Observing people using transportation around us, I noticed that delivery riders frequently passed by, often appearing random and free in their movements. Many had multiple tablets mounted on their bikes, frequently checking or scrolling on screens while riding, which made me feel nervous for their safety. This behavior reminded me of criticism in Chinese media regarding delivery workers, who often ride hastily to meet strict delivery quotas, leading to accidents and public frustration. Some blame the riders for their lack of caution, while others point to the systemic pressures they face from companies, requiring high delivery counts each day, which contributes to their stress and risky behaviors.