ethnography

I chose my work as the location for my ethnography. I currently work at Pinecrest School in Van Nuys. 
This is a school that ranges from grade levels kindergarten to eighth grade. Some may wonder why a school such as this can we "LA". I believe this is a perfect example of LA because first off education is an important factor anywhere and everywhere but also the affects of children in a school environment can tell us a lot about spaces and its affect on others.

On March 15th I went to work with a whole new goal and attitude. My job, as the after school yard supervisor, I am to look after all the children and occasionally help them here and there or just keep them entertained. But today, I went into work as a stranger, with no expectations. The outcome of my observation was quite interesting and amusing. I realized that since I was no linger playing with the kids they were more cautious with their every move. Groups of children, that were up to no good were anxiety and always looking back at me every time they had something scheming planned. I could not help but laugh at this idea because now, I was seen as a higher power rather than a "friend" who was there to help and have fun.   This is a great example of space and how it affects ones attitude and actions. Once the children knew that I was quiet and observing, they began to also take note and adjust to my behaviors.

In that same day, at about 5 o'clock pm, the students that are still at school were brought into the day care room to be watched as they wait for their parents to arrive. A great amount of student had high energies and were loud and disruptive. But not soon later the principal walks into the room and a quick layer of silence and perfection filled the room. Here we can see the power of one person affecting a space. This is also commonly seen throughout our daily routine whether we realize it or not.

This would be considered "LA" because I believe that everywhere we go, there is an expectation already set for each and everyone of us. Whether we walk into a mall or into a classroom, there are different behaviors that are expected and practiced. The affect of the children being in school are examples of how space affects a persons behavior in a particular space and the affect that the principal or any other authority figure have on the children is an example of how one can affect the space they present themselves in.