week10

[Last modified: December, 6 2024 07:03 PM]

Methodological Developments

Initial methods focused on surveys and interviews, but following reflections on positionality and observation exercises, the revised approach incorporates:

·Field Observations: Observing consumer behavior in second-hand and vintage stores and public spaces like cafes to identify patterns in sustainable practices.

·Diverse Sampling: Expanding beyond convenience sampling to include varied socio-economic and cultural groups for a more representative dataset.

·Open-Ended Interviews: Modifying questions to allow participants to share their views without bias or assumptions freely.

Ethical Considerations

Reflection revealed the need to address potential biases and assumptions in the research design. Steps include:

·Ensuring all participants are informed of their rights, particularly around data privacy and voluntary participation.

·Balancing discussions of affordability and systemic barriers to avoid reinforcing the narrative that sustainable choices are purely individual responsibilities.

Data Collection and Analysis

·Quantitative: Conduct surveys with diverse participants to identify general trends.

·Qualitative: Use thematic analysis for insights from interviews and observations, integrating subtle cues (e.g., non-verbal indicators of sustainable choices).

Conclusion

Revisions informed by module discussions enhance the study’s inclusivity, methodological rigor, and ethical accountability. This research will contribute to a nuanced understanding of sustainable fashion adoption in London by addressing structural challenges alongside personal attitudes.

week9

[Last modified: November, 29 2024 01:48 PM]

Ethical Issues

•Informed Consent: Elderly participants may face cognitive or linguistic barriers to understanding the research’s scope. The student must ensure participants are fully informed and give explicit, voluntary consent.

•Impact of Research: The research could unintentionally stigmatize participants who struggle with technology, potentially causing embarrassment or harming their self-esteem.

Data Protection Issues

•Diaries and social diagrams may contain personal and sensitive information about participants’ lives and relationships. Proper anonymization and secure data storage protocols are essential to safeguard this information.

Power/Coercion

•The student’s dual role as a volunteer and researcher may create a power imbalance, where participants feel obliged to engage due to the researcher’s perceived authority or contribution to the community center.

Vulnerability and Sensitivity

•Participants over 65 may be vulnerable due to potential cognitive decline, physical limitations, or social isolation. The research topic itself is not inherently sensitive, but personal reflections on social lives could lead to emotional discomfort for some participants.

Ethical Approval

•This project is likely to be classified as low risk but should still receive approval from the Anthropology Ethics Committee, given the involvement of potentially vulnerable individuals and the collection of personal data.

Ethical Guidance for Research on Elderly Technology Use in London

Below are key considerations and recommendations:

Informed Consent

The researcher must ensure that consent is informed, voluntary, and ongoing. Given the potential vulnerability of participants, a clear and accessible consent process should be developed. This could include:

•Providing information sheets in large font and plain language.

•Offering opportunities for participants to ask questions and withdraw at any time without repercussions.

•Using verbal consent protocols for individuals with literacy challenges, supported by audio-recorded agreements.

Data Protection

Diaries, interviews, and social diagrams may reveal sensitive personal information. The student must:

•Anonymize all data before analysis.

•Use secure data storage systems to prevent unauthorized access.

•Include a clear explanation in the consent form about how data will be used, stored, and shared.

Addressing Power Dynamics

The researcher’s dual role as a volunteer and interviewer could unintentionally pressure participants to engage. To mitigate this:

•The researcher should emphasize that participation is optional and will not affect their access to courses or services.

•They should adopt a neutral stance, avoiding overly familiar interactions that could influence responses.

Minimizing Harm

To prevent harm, the student must avoid language or actions that could highlight technological shortcomings in a way that embarrasses participants. Offering participants positive reinforcement and an opportunity to reflect on their growth can help counteract any potential negative effects.

Vulnerability and Sensitivity

While elderly participants are considered a vulnerable group, the topic itself is not inherently sensitive. However, the researcher must be prepared to address emotional responses that might arise during interviews or diary reflections.

Ethical Review

This project is low risk but should be reviewed by the Anthropology Ethics Committee due to the inclusion of a vulnerable population. The student should submit a detailed risk assessment outlining steps to protect participants and address potential ethical concerns.

Conclusion

By following these recommendations, the researcher can ensure the project is conducted ethically, with the dignity and safety of participants prioritized.

week8

[Last modified: November, 22 2024 04:59 PM]

I spent 15 minutes observing a quiet park on campus. This brief observation demonstrates how space communicates through non-verbal elements, creating rich and layered interactions between people and their surroundings.

The sounds in the park blend nature and human activity. Birds chirping in the trees with clear and pleasant tones and leaves rustling in the wind create a soothing backdrop. The calm is occasionally broken by the sound of footsteps made by people walking across the gravel road, distant chatter, and the faint hum of vehicles. These overlapping sounds energize the space without overwhelming it, providing a mix of serenity and subtle movement.

The odors are mild but noticeable. The damp dirt carries a fresh, earthy scent, while the grass adds a refreshing aroma. Occasionally, a hint of coffee wafts through the air, reminding passing students to connect their natural surroundings to the larger campus environment.

The textures are also noticeable. The bench I sat on was smooth to the touch, but a bit worn, its cold surface was a sign of exposure to the weather. The grass nearby was soft and uneven, while the gravel path was hard and rough. These contrasts add depth to the experience, reminding me how natural and architectural elements coexist in this space.

As I observed, the light changed, altering the park’s atmosphere. At first, the cloudy sky softened the light, casting faint shadows. Later, sunlight came in and illuminated patches of grass and tree trunks, creating a warm and inviting feeling. This change in light gave the park a sense of life and movement even in the silence.

A slight breeze brought a chill from time to time. This, combined with the fresh smells and changing light, highlighted the seasonal transition of fall—a quiet reminder of the passage of time.

 

Week7

[Last modified: November, 15 2024 08:50 PM]

Riding Subway Escalators

Riding the escalators on the London Underground is a daily ritual – so routine that no one needs to think about how the body and the world come together in such a simple moment.

When standing on the escalator. The body instinctively readjusts- your weight shifts slightly to balance against the tilt, and you might reach for the handrail without thinking. If standing and not moving, you would feel the slight vibration of the moving steps beneath your feet, a gentle reminder of the presence of the machine. If you are walking left, your steps synchronize with the escalator’s pace, molding your movement into its rhythm.

But it is not only about movement, it is a social experience too. An unwritten rule on the right, passed on the left-keeps the flow of people orderly. If someone stands on the left, a few sighs or quiet grumbles quickly remind them of the rules. These cues, mostly so subtle, say something about how deeply societal norms structure even the tiniest of our daily responses.

Beyond what rules exist, however, is the experience itself. The hum of the escalator, the whoosh of air as a train rushes past, and the sense of others standing close by create an atmosphere. For a commuter simply eager to get to work, this could be a moment that feels little more than a necessary pause. For a tourist, however, it might be exciting or even disorienting.

The escalator then is more than this mere tool to facilitate the movement between floors. It is a space in which our bodies respond to the physical world and the social expectations around us. It is also a space in which we make meaning from our own feelings and our perceptions. By paying attention to such small moments of everyday life, we come to realize that our bodies are not merely passive participants of the world but that they constantly understand and shape our experience of it.

Week5

[Last modified: November, 1 2024 09:01 PM]

 

Researching people’s attitudes toward sustainable fashion in London has several political issues related to environmental responsibility, economic fairness, and consumer choice. The topic of sustainable fashion is politically charged, as it involves a range of public issues such as environmental protection, economic equity, and social responsibility, which are often closely related to different values and interest positions. By asking people about sustainable fashion, this project isn’t neutral—it suggests that sustainable fashion is a better option, aligning with ideas that promote social and environmental values.

The design of this project assumes that sustainable fashion is important and worth supporting. This perspective may unintentionally influence participants to see sustainable fashion positively, or at least as something desirable. This bias could leave out the experiences of those who might not be able to afford sustainable products or lack access to eco-friendly brands. These assumptions also reflect the idea that individual shopping choices can drive positive change, a view that may overlook larger structural issues, like the high cost of sustainable products or the role of companies and governments in making the fashion industry greener.

My own beliefs as a researcher also play a role. Since I value sustainability, I may feel inclined to highlight responses that support sustainable practices or to interpret findings in a way that favors sustainability. This could create a subtle bias, framing sustainable fashion as a “good” choice in the research findings. Such a perspective could unintentionally align with political narratives that place responsibility for change on individuals, rather than on institutions or companies.

To make the research fairer, I could adjust the methodology to include questions about barriers people face with sustainable fashion, like cost and availability. By asking about these issues, the study would present more complete aspects of people’s attitudes. This approach would recognize the political complexities of sustainable fashion and provide a balanced view that considers both support for sustainability and the challenges people encounter.

Week4

[Last modified: October, 25 2024 07:13 PM]

For my pilot research on people’s attitudes toward sustainable fashion, I spent some time observing in a Starbucks near school. This public space allowed me to watch how people’s clothing and small actions might show their views on sustainability. I focused on details like how people dressed, and small choices they made, which helped me see how sustainable habits show up in everyday life.

I noticed a variety of clothing styles, some people wore well-known brands, like Prada, Louis Vuitton and some people wear sustainable brands like Barbour and the north face, also there are someone dressed in simpler or thrifted clothes, possibly signaling a preference for sustainable fashion. In addition, I noticed small actions like someone using a reusable coffee cup instead of the disposable cups, which can suggest a conscious approach to sustainable living.

During my observation, an interesting thing is people in well-known luxury brands do not use reusable cups, while majority people use reusable cups are wearing Barbour or vintage clothes. So I realized that sustainable fashion isn’t always obvious, sometimes it’s hard to notice if they are wearing second-hand clothes or clothes made by sustainable materials, as some brand logos are not noticeable and there are mass-produced ‘vintage’ style clothes. But we can observe the small things people do to reflect their attitudes to sustainable lifestyle.

Overall, this observation exercise showed me that field notes can capture subtle, real-life behaviors related to sustainable fashion. In future research, I would continue using this method to gather more detailed insights, as it helps reveal how people make sustainable choices in small, everyday ways.IMG_0710 2

Week3

[Last modified: October, 18 2024 06:05 PM]

When thinking about my research on people’s attitudes toward sustainable fashion, I realize that my personal background and experiences affect how I approach this topic.

I am the one who care a lot about environmental issues, I always donate used clothes and buy second-hand clothes as well. So I might expect other people to feel the same way about sustainable fashion. This could make me ask questions in a way that assumes people understand and support sustainability, which might not be true. If I don’t consider other perspectives, I could miss out on important reasons why people may or may not choose sustainable fashion, like cost or availability.

I’ve studied theories that link fashion choices to social class or culture, but not everyone thinks this way. People might choose clothes for just reasons like comfort or style, which don’t always fit into these theories. I need to be careful not to let my academic knowledge stop me from understanding their real, everyday reasons. What’s more, I’ve had some related education background that helps me understand sustainability, but not everyone has that.

To improve my research, I would make the interview questions more open-ended, so people can share their own views without feeling pressured to agree with me. I would also make sure to include participants from different backgrounds to get a wider range of opinions.

By being aware of how my identity shapes my research, I can make sure I’m being fair and open, which will help me get a more complete understanding of how people feel about sustainable fashion.

Week2

[Last modified: October, 11 2024 02:25 PM]

In order to conduct this research, visiting second-hand clothes store, vintage market and do interviews with customers there is necessary. There is few second-hand clothes and vintage store near UCL, and due to the time limit, I just head to one of them.The store was packed with racks of clothing, some neatly hung, others overflowing, while cardboard boxes filled with scarves and belts cluttered the floor. They got a board with words‘Vintage& sustainable clothing’ on it. And I visit their instagram, they posted many contents about circular fashion. This store is really concern environment and encourage sustainable fashion.

There are many consumers visiting the store during my stay at the store, majority of them actually bought some stuff. I’ve started a casual conversation with a girl. I asked her why you choose vintage clothes, and she said ‘ Buying pre-own clothes is more environmental friendly, we all know the fashion industry is harmful. Also vintage clothes are always unique compared to those mass production pieces. And the vintage clothes are much cheaper than brand new ones’.

The shop was full of conversation. A group of students gathered near the cashier, discussing vintage markets elsewhere. They spoke passionately about the environmental impact of fast fashion, shared tips on saving and upcycling, and encouraged each other to participate in events. It’s clear that for them, sustainable fashion is more than just a trend; It’s a commitment, a way of life that fits into their daily choices.

Also I found many local brands have promotion about sustainably fashion. For example, Patagonia, Stella McCartney, Rapanui and so on. Patagonia use recycled materials such as polyester, nylon, and wool in many of its products, and even use recycled plastic bottles for clothes. Patagonia also provide repair and recycling service for their brand products. On their website, there are many information about current fashion industry impacts on environment and their strategies for sustainability.

According to my research the idea of sustainability was not just preached; it was practiced. Clothing became more than fabric; it was a symbol of resistance to disposable culture, each stitch a deliberate act of care for the planet. Also buying second hand clothes can satisfy peoples’ desire for uniqueness.

 

Week1

[Last modified: October, 11 2024 11:41 AM]

topic :Exploring People’s Attitudes Towards Sustainable Fashion in London

Research Background 

Sustainable fashion is emerging trend due to growing environmental concerns and the need for more ethical consumer behavior. However, understanding consumer attitudes towards sustainable fashion remains complex. This pilot study aims to identify how individuals perceive sustainable fashion, the factors influencing their buying decisions, and potential barriers to adopting sustainable practices.

Research Questions

1.What are people’s attitudes toward sustainable fashion, what factors

2.What factors influence their perceptions and behaviors?

3.How aware are individuals of sustainable fashion?

4.What factors (e.g., price, quality, brand reputation) influence consumers’ willingness to buy sustainable clothing?

5.What barriers (e.g., availability, lack of information) do people perceive in adopting sustainable fashion?

Objectives

•To explore the level of awareness and understanding of sustainable fashion among participants.

•To identify key factors influencing attitudes and purchase decisions related to sustainable fashion.

•To uncover perceived barriers that may hinder the adoption of sustainable fashion.

 

Methodology

•Research Design: Mixed-methods approach combining quantitative surveys and qualitative interviews.

•Sampling:

•Convenience sampling of 20-30 participants, targeting diverse demographics (age, gender, income levels) for a broader range of perspectives.

•Data Collection Tools:

•Quantitative: Structured survey with related questions to assess attitudes, preferences, and knowledge of sustainable fashion.

•Qualitative: Semi-structured interview guide with open-ended questions to explore in-depth views on sustainability in fashion.

•Data Collection Procedure:

•Recruit participants through social media, community groups, or local organizations.

•Administer surveys online and conduct interviews either in person or virtually.

•Data Analysis:

•Quantitative: Use basic statistical techniques (e.g., frequency analysis, cross-tabulation) to analyze survey responses.

•Qualitative: Thematic analysis of interview transcripts to identify recurring themes and attitudes.

 

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