Lecture : Prof. Dr. Rahma Fithriani, SS, M.Hum, P.

hD
Assignment : observasion field note
Writer : Rizky putri jasmin siahaan
Course : Qualitative Reserch
OBSERVATION
I conducted my observation at the bus stops near the teaching faculty of North
Sumatra State Islamic University (UINSU). This location was chosen due to its
strategic positioning, attracting individuals engaging in various activities. I believe
there is ample opportunity to observe diverse behaviors and interactions at this site.
The decision to select this location was driven by the potential richness of
observations it offers. The exact location of the observation site can be referenced
on the map provided on the final page of this observation field note. The observation
sessions were conducted on two separate days, specifically on the 13th and 14th of
May 2024. These observations were undertaken as part of fulfilling my course
assignment, with the primary aim of understanding the activities of students at
UINSU within the vicinity of the bus stops.

OBSERVATION
08.00-08.10
When I arrived at the bus stop, I
immediately saw a number of students
already sitting on the available benches.
Most of them look busy with their
respective gadgets. Some people were
checking messages on their phones, while
others seemed to be browsing social media
or watching videos. This shows how
important technology is in students' daily
lives.
Apart from that, I also saw a group of
students discussing their college
assignments. They brought books and
laptops, and seemed to be planning
REFLECTION
The observation conducted from
Halte FITK revealed that the place is
not merely a waiting area for
transportation, but also serves as a
hub of activities and interactions for
students. Here are some reflections
from the observation:
The prevalence of technology in
students' daily lives was evident
from the multitude of gadget users at
the bus stop. This underscores the
significant role of technology in
supporting both academic and social
activities of students, while also
raising questions about the extent of
dependency on technology.
strategies to complete the assignments
given by the lecturer. Their discussion
looked serious, but was occasionally
punctuated with laughter and light jokes.
This shows that this bus stop is not only a
place to wait for transportation, but also a
space for academic discussion and
collaboration.
08.10-08.25
Over the next half hour, activity at the bus
stop died down somewhat. Most students
seemed asleep or glued to their gadget
screens. Some of them may be using the
time to prepare themselves before lectures
start, while others may just enjoy a moment
of calm before their daily routine begins.
However, there was one interesting
incident that happened next to me. A
student appeared to be rushing to the bus
stop holding a piece of paper and a
backpack. He seemed restless and looking
around for something. I approached him
and asked if he needed help. Apparently, he
lost his student card which was very
important to him. I, along with other
students nearby, tried to help him look for
it, and finally the card was found in his
tightly closed bag. This incident reminded
me how important it is to take good care of
valuables, especially when in public places.
08:25-08:40
As the minutes passed, more students
began to arrive at the bus stop. Some
arrived alone, while others came in small
groups, engaged in lively conversations. It
The bus stop is not only a waiting
area but also a space for academic
discussions and collaboration among
students. This indicates the
flexibility of public spaces to
facilitate various types of
interactions and activities, indirectly
supporting learning and academic
growth.
The presence of students from
various faculties and backgrounds at
the bus stop demonstrates the rich
diversity within the campus
community. This creates an inclusive
environment where ideas and
experiences from diverse groups can
be shared and synergized.
The presence of a student painting at
the bus stop highlights the
importance of space for creative
expression and talent development
amidst academic busyness. It
illustrates the significance of
supportive environments in fostering
innovation and creativity among
students.
The active participation of students
in reading announcements and
participating in various
extracurricular activities
demonstrates their enthusiasm and
eagerness to develop themselves
beyond academic realms. This
underscores the importance of
holistic education that encompasses
personal and social aspects.
was evident that the bus stop served as a
meeting point for students from different Overall, the observation at the bus
faculties and backgrounds, fostering a stop during that time provided
sense of community among them. valuable insights into the dynamics
of student life in public spaces. It
At a corner of the bus stop, I noticed a emphasizes the importance of places
student setting up an easel and canvas. like bus stops in shaping holistic
With a palette of vibrant colors beside learning experiences and supporting
them, they began to paint, completely comprehensive student growth.
engrossed in their creative process. This
unexpected sight added a touch of artistic
flair to the bustling atmosphere of the bus
stop, reminding me of the diverse talents
and passions that exist within the student
community.

Meanwhile, a small crowd had gathered

around a notice board near the entrance of
the bus stop. They were reading flyers and
announcements about upcoming events,
workshops, and student initiatives. It was
inspiring to see students actively engaging
with opportunities beyond their academic
pursuits, demonstrating their enthusiasm
for personal growth and extracurricular
activities.

As the clock struck 08.20, the arrival of

the bus signaled the beginning of another
journey for the students gathered at the
bus stop. With a mix of excitement and
determination, they boarded the bus, ready
to embark on their day ahead. The vibrant
energy and camaraderie observed during
these precious minutes encapsulated the
spirit of university life, where every
moment is an opportunity for learning,
connection, and personal growth.
OBSERVATION
09:55-10:00
Today I decided to observe the student bus
stop located in the city center starting from
09:30 am. When I arrived at the location,
the atmosphere around the bus stop was
already starting to get lively. Several
students were seen walking towards the bus
stop, carrying their backpacks while talking
to each other. Most of them looked relaxed,
although they also seemed a bit rushed,
perhaps because they were afraid of being
late for class.
10:00-10:10
At this early hour, city buses are the main
mode of transportation passing through bus
stops. I noted at least three city buses
stopping at that stop during the first 30
minutes of my observations. Several public
transportation and online motorcycle taxis
also pass by, although not as many as city
buses. The public transportation users got
off at the bus stop, some of them
immediately rushed to their destination,
while others chose to wait around the bus
stop. The behavior of people around the bus
stop is also interesting to observe. Some
students looked busy on their phones,
perhaps checking messages or checking the
latest news. Others were engaged in light
conversation with their friends, laughing
and joking without worrying about the
time. However, there are also some people
who look tense or anxious, perhaps because
they are waiting for late transportation or
because they have an important
appointment.
REFLECTION
Reflections on the second day of
observing the bus stop can focus on
personal experiences and
understanding gained while
observing the bus stop. Here's an
example of a possible reflection:
The second day of observation at the
bus stop opened my eyes further to
the dynamics of daily life around the
bus stop. I noticed various stories
hidden behind this simple routine.
While waiting at the bus stop, I
witnessed various types of people:
workers exercising on their way to
the office, excited students with
backpacks on their backs, elderly
people walking carefully, and even
street artists trying to liven up the
atmosphere with their talents.
One thing that caught my attention
was how this bus stop was not just a
transit place, but also a meeting
place and social interaction for many
people. I saw people who were
initially strangers to each other,
sharing short stories or simply
exchanging smiles while waiting for
the bus to arrive. This made me
realize that even in the hustle and
bustle of the city, there are small
spaces where social connections still
exist.
 10:10-10:20
The physical condition of the bus stop
looked quite good at this hour. The seats are
clean and comfortable, although some look
a little worn. The lighting around the bus
stop is bright and sufficient, making the
surrounding environment feel safe.
However, I also saw some small rubbish
scattered around the seats, perhaps due to a
lack of awareness of environmental
cleanliness. As time goes by, activity
around the bus stop increases. More people
come and go, creating the hustle and bustle
typical of a public transportation hub.
Students and local residents continued to
arrive, making the queue at the bus stop
even longer. Some public transportation
stops briefly before continuing their
journey, while others remain stopped
longer to drop off and pick up passengers.
As the clock struck , activity at the bus stop
began to die down. The number of people
using bus stops is starting to decrease,
mostly because they have found the
transportation they were waiting for. Some
students were still seen rushing to campus,
while others continued their journey by bus
or public transportation that had just
arrived. The originally bustling and busy
atmosphere began to die down, leaving the
bus stop almost deserted after an hour of
activity.

REFLECTIVE

Observing the bustling activity at the student bus stop from 9:30 to 10:30 in the
morning offered me valuable insights into the rhythm of urban life and the dynamics
of commuter behavior. As I stood amidst the flurry of students and city dwellers, I
couldn't help but marvel at the intricate tapestry of interactions unfolding before me.
One of the most striking aspects of the observation was the palpable sense of
anticipation that permeated the air. Students, laden with oversized backpacks and
animated conversations, congregated around the bus stop, eagerly awaiting their ride
to various destinations. The sight of their youthful energy and camaraderie served as
a reminder of the vibrant community that thrives within urban centers. The diverse
array of transportation options passing through the stop underscored the
interconnectedness of city life. From the frequent arrival of city buses to the
occasional presence of ride-hailing services, each mode of transport played a crucial
role in facilitating the movement of people across the urban landscape. This eclectic
mix of transportation options not only catered to the diverse needs of commuters but
also reflected the dynamism of modern urban infrastructure.

observation area

PINTU

MASUK

POS

SATPAM

ROAD