PHASE IV: Data Collection Phase / Duration: 2 weeks
In Phase III, I have divided my participants into two groups: face-to-face group and facebook group. Before phase III session ended, I have asked my participants to take photographs about: a) where they primarily shop for food, b) where they typically eat their favorite meal of the day, c) who do they eat with, and d) what kind of adjustments have they made to eating food in Denmark. Schedule for second meeting have been arranged and I met with them separately.
Group A: Face-to-face Group
After a week of taking their photographs, I have met with my face-to-group saturday evening at svanevej privatskole where they usually stay after their church services. Before the meeting, I asked the participants to choose 3 of their most meaningful photos and caption them. At the meeting, I have asked each participant to describe the picture they have captured as well as identify how their pictures describe their food experience in Denmark. We have a meaningful discussion, each participants discussing their experiences. Memos were given to participants, where they can write their thoughts and comments.
After sharing the stories behind their photographs, I asked the participants to identify themes that have come out from our discussion. The most common theme that emerged from the discussion was food and friendship. In addition, the participants tend to easily adapt the Danish eating habit because they agreed that it is more healthy.
After brainstorming for an overall theme that we will use, all participants answered feedback questionnaire about their experience.
Group B: Facebook Group
A day after I met with my face-to-face group, I arranged a meeting with my facebook group via facebook chats. It’s challenging because we need to be online at the same time, and as all of them are aupairs, we have to wait have for everybody to finish their chores. We finally started the discussion at 9 pm which, I think, is challenging because all of them are tired and would like to rest early as they have to start working early the next day.
Just like my face-to-face group, I asked my facebook group participants to describe their food experience in Denmark.
I also asked them to provide their comments or feelings about the photos during comments or exchange. However, another challenge was, because we are chatting, some of them will just send a thumbs-up sign.
Overall, we have a meaningful discussion. Each participant, despite the fact that it was past their bedtime, took time to share and discuss what they are asked to. And just like Group A, I also asked them to develop themes from our discussion and all of them agreed that their food experience in Denmark is healthier than in the Philippines. After the discussion, all participants were provided a feedback link for them to fill out.
My internship is almost done. And I have many experiences to reflect upon. It was indeed fruitful, as I’ve got to learn with them. Most importantly, I was able to compare which method works as a way to facilitate group discussion (face-to-face or facebook chats.) My last phase in this internship is coming up.. Will keep you updated :)









