A self-documentation of attitudes, behaviours, beliefs and fears
2-3 days
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A notebook or a diary
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A phone, disposable camera, video camera or voice recorder.
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Markers and pens in different colours
What is this tool and what is its purpose and benefit?
Probing is an easy way to capture attitudes, behaviours, beliefs and fears from everyday moments situations through self-documentation, such as taking written and voice notes, photos and short video recordings. Recording information in the moment makes it more genuine and realistic. The recorded data is then analysed, revealing actual attitudes, behaviours, beliefs and fears. These insights can be directly linked to work performance and attitudes towards education, helping to identify which career paths may be most suitable for an individual.
Steps for using this tool
STEP 1
STEP 2
STEP 3
STEP 4
STEP 5
STEP 6
Start by planning when and how your probing will take place. Select a time that allows you to observe your attitudes, behaviours, beliefs and fears well. It would be useful to include events and matters handled by public organisations, for instance a library, or other organisations, even a corner shop, as well as face-to-face and online activities. It should also include new or uncomfortable events. Include normal discussions with family, friends and other people too.
Decide how you will document the process. Will you use a notebook, make voice recordings, or take photos? To obtain the most immediate reactions, it is recommended that you document them in writing or by voice recording.
Start your 2–3-day self-documentation. Make notes as you go along and record your feelings immediately after the event. For example, you could take photos of things that make you react, such as insufficient signage in the hospital. Do not sugar-coat or analyse your reactions yet. Let them be raw.
Analyse your findings. You can analyse them after each day or all at once. Create a four-column table with the following headings: 'My attitudes', 'My behaviours', 'My beliefs' and 'My fears'.
Look at your lists. For each category of observation, identify and mark items in different colours.
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What is good and enabling.
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What is hindering you.
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What you could develop.
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What is interesting.
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What kind of patterns can you identify in these? How are they linked to who you are?
Lastly, think about which attitudes, behaviours, beliefs and fears could benefit your career development and help you achieve your goals.
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