Qualitative Investigation of the Process of Ability Development in Performance

Abstract

The objective of this study was to qualitatively examine and conceptualize a model of the development of ability in the performance process. This qualitative research study was based on the research question, “How do performers narrate the process when they develop the ability to do something?” Data were collected observations and introspective reports from 8 performers who had learned to juggling for the first time and were analyzed using the Trajectory Equifinality Model.Results showed that performers slowly developed a sensuous understanding about the exercise task because they sought to perform better. Moreover, performers developed the ability to complete the task because of their improved sensuous understanding. That is to say, performers’ narration of the process of ability development reflects a qualitative shift resulting from an understanding of oneself through repeated “self-regulation”and “over-adjustment” .The following three points are also discussed: 1) The knack of ability development in performance, 2) They were confronted with their personality implied at qualitative shift, 3) The meaning of “stagnant performance” during task achievement.View full abstract