Field Experience Interview and Writing Assignment ✓ Solved

This Field Experience has 3 parts: Part 1 involves interviewing an individual at least 65 years of age, conducting a 10-13 question interview. You can select from a given set of base questions or create your own. You must record, transcribe, or note the responses, which will also be included as an appendix in your formal write-up. To ensure confidentiality, use only first names or initials.

Part 2 requires a formal write-up reflecting on your interview experience. The introductory paragraph should outline your overall experience, how you chose the interviewee, and your reasoning for this choice. In the body paragraphs, select three questions from a provided list and write a paragraph response to each. The summary paragraph should conclude your paper.

Additionally, adhere to APA style and professional writing tone throughout the assignment. Be mindful of grammar, syntax, spelling, and style.

Paper For Above Instructions

The process of conducting an interview with an elder can be both enriching and illuminating. This formal writing assignment presents an opportunity to engage with an individual who possesses a wealth of experiences and insights related to aging. For my interview, I chose to speak with Mr. John Doe, a 70-year-old retired teacher, who I have known through family connections for several years. He has a penchant for storytelling and has seen considerable changes in society over his lifetime, making him an excellent choice for this assignment.

Reflecting on my overall experience with this assignment, I found the process to be engaging and educational. The interview was structured around ten questions I had prepared, incorporating both the base questions and a few I generated myself to delve deeper into Mr. Doe's experiences. It was essential that I approached the interview with an open mind and a genuine desire to learn from his responses. I conducted the interview at his home, which allowed for a relaxed atmosphere where Mr. Doe felt comfortable sharing his thoughts.

During the interview, I felt a mix of excitement and nervousness. I was eager to hear Mr. Doe's stories, but I also wanted to ensure I asked my questions appropriately. One of the questions I posed was about the most important historical event he lived through, which he identified as the civil rights movement. Mr. Doe passionately described how this period not only changed societal norms but also influenced his career as an educator, shaping his commitment to teaching inclusivity and respect for diversity. This realization resonated deeply with me, highlighting the connection between lived experiences and the evolving societal landscape.

Surprisingly, Mr. Doe shared that despite the advancements made since the civil rights era, he still encountered age-related discrimination. He recounted moments where younger colleagues underestimated his abilities due to his age, which prompted a reflection on the pervasive stereotypes that surround aging. This insight challenged my own perceptions of aging and emphasized the importance of viewing older adults as valuable contributors to society rather than as individuals relegated to the background.

As I conversed with Mr. Doe, I noticed a shift in my perception of older adults. Before this interview, I held a simplistic view of aging, often associating it with decline and frailty. However, Mr. Doe's vibrant spirit and wealth of knowledge opened my eyes to the richness that comes with experience. I learned that older adults possess invaluable perspectives shaped by decades of personal and professional growth.

This interview has prompted changes in my outlook on both aging and my interactions with older individuals. It has made me more appreciative of their stories and taught me to approach conversations with curiosity rather than assumptions. I am now more inclined to seek out and listen to the experiences of older generations, valuing the lessons they can impart.

Moreover, I found several connections between Mr. Doe's insights and the material I have studied in my textbook. For example, the importance of effective communication between healthcare workers and older adults highlights a key theme in elder care literature, underscoring the need for sensitivity and understanding in interactions. Mr. Doe articulated that healthcare providers often overlook the personal histories of older adults, which can lead to miscommunication and frustration. This aligns with research that emphasizes the need for holistic care approaches that consider the individual needs of elderly patients (Cattan et al., 2016).

As I reflect on this experience, I realize that I can apply the insights gained from this interview in both my personal and professional life. Understanding the challenges and triumphs of aging can inform my future interactions with older clients and enable me to advocate for better practices in elder care settings. The wisdom shared by Mr. Doe will serve as a reminder to maintain respect and appreciation for the elderly population.

In conclusion, this field experience has significantly shaped my understanding of aging and the perceptions associated with it. Conducting the interview not only provided me with valuable insights into the life of Mr. Doe but also allowed me to grow as an empathetic listener and advocate for the elderly. I am grateful for the opportunity to learn from his experiences and will carry these lessons with me throughout my career.

References

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