Limitation and Freedom within the framework of a Further Education College

This research emerged as a result of working as a lecturer in a Further Education College. I had taught a variety of subjects at the college, including research methods and the teaching qualifications for people entering the profession. Whilst at the College I had experienced a number of Ofsted (Office for Standards in Education) inspections. I was always interested by the reactions and behaviour adopted by managers and lecturers leading up, and during the inspection process. The original aim of this study intended to investigate the impact of the inspection process, focusing on the interplay between objective assessment methods and the multi subjectivity of those involved. However, I found that the research transcended such a simplistic approach between objectivity and subjectivity, not only in what I had intended to investigate, but also the manner in which research is conducted and presented. I have struggled with the traditional shaping of research into a linear, structured framework. I wanted to challenge the limitations of traditional research methods, searching for something new, inviting different ways of seeing the social world. I wanted a research which moved beyond traditional boundaries, no shaping, squeezing or manipulating data to fit an accepted criterion, which would result in neat endings allowing a conclusion to be reached. However, I found the research process weaving, wrapping and twirling around and around the data. The research process and content merged together. This research is based on incessant choosing, experimenting and playing in an attempt to transform how we see, experience and make sense of the research process. As Bocher(2000) writes research is complex, uncertain and messy. Traditional methods of research crumble in such an environment. This research is performed in a decentralised space, based on a vocabulary of possibilities and discovery. I desired a research in which form was as important as content. Consequently, this research is based on a variety of mediums. It includes, words, poetry, colour, feelings, story telling, chatter, as identities and images merge revealing the overlapping, competing, complexity within which research is conducted and life is lived.Faculty of Arts and Educatio