This project almost has a life of its own now, the more I talk to people about it, whether casually or with specific stakeholders, there are always new roads and avenues that come to light. Today I have spent some time going over my post-it wall, a great process of sort of mind mapping or thinking more visually that has aided me a lot through this journey. Each colourful square scrawled with some interesting point or person’s name that I should follow up on is a potential new area of interest or possible new project. After the summer and the latest intervention/feedback I have reassessed things, taking away what isn’t necessary any longer and keeping that which serves best what I am doing right now. I’ve done some thinking about triangulation, reflective practice (re-reading some of those initial resources we were given) and looking back at what I have achieved and learnt so far. The project, and I, really needed this exercise in focus and for want of a better word, streamlining.
I can see how I could keep going beyond MAAI easily, but we have framework and deadlines to adhere to for now. I am really encouraged though by the overwhelmingly positive responses to everything I have done with stakeholders through out the course (even though it doesn’t always make for the most useful critical feedback!) and the project feels at times larger than just me now. This is good ultimately. I wanted to effect change in people’s minds in this area and I know, no matter what happens with MAAI, that I have done this effectively and successfully. I’m not gonna lie, I want to do well of course and get a good grading etc but I also feel at peace with the idea that the project and its life and effect out in the world is ultimately more important than either me or CSM. This journey has helped me also make some larger decisions about my own work and career trajectory beyond December and that is so valuable for me personally.