Submission 3: Critical Reflection

Module Learning

Throughout the duration of this module, we were consistently evaluating our peers which was able to solidify my learning as I can learn from both the mistakes of others as well as their different viewpoints, thus broadening my horizon. Also, I was able to identify my own lack of understanding when I was unable to evaluate certain content. Even though I was not able to read more books to gain more insights, the supplementary materials and instructional units were crucial in exposing myself to different methods of writing, which I was able to try in reports of other modules as well.

 

The best way to learn is by doing, which in the case of the Summary Reader Response, I realised that my understanding of the referencing and citation was not good enough which resulted in mistakes being made. I have since then applied the lessons learnt to the technical report, hopefully not repeating any mistakes.

 

On the vocal side, I learnt how to not just present content to an audience but also engage the audience so that my content will get through to them. The introduction of the Monroe's Motivated Sequence gave me many insights on how to structure my presentation and allowed me to learn that presentations is not just about speaking confidently, it is only the tip of the iceberg, it is about having a structure that will help both the presenter and the audience.

 

Overall, I am confident with my oral presentation with preparation, but I may not be able to have the same confidence if no preparation was given. In my written communication, vocabulary was improved with the help of the supplementary material but I need to improve on including only essential ideas and information that will help my writing, instead of including everything I find.

 (300 words)

 

Project Learning

A key lesson I learnt from this research project was understanding the purpose of the report and thus adjust the content accordingly. I felt the constraint of the word limit as I included many research details that I felt was needed in the report. This was because I did not had a clear understanding of the intent of what we wanted to achieve. It was after our report hit more than 5000 words that I discussed with my group the intent of the report and we worked towards that direction, only including essential information that will assist in pushing for our purpose.

 

In addition, I learnt the importance of communicating well with my groupmates in this report. While instructions were given on what to do, some of my groupmates may have a different understanding of what I meant which resulted in us working in a different direction. Hence, it is important to have a 2-way communication where instructions are read back to ensure that both sides are on the same topic. Due to the lack of this 2-way communication, we realised we repeated many details in the report which also added up to the 5000 words.

Therefore, while it is important to enjoy the process, it is also important to work with an end in mind. This must also be conveyed clearly to the group members as everyone must paddle in the right direction for the boat to move. As we progress in our university journey, while it is important for everyone to have a goal in mind, we must also have a plan to reach that goal and not leave it up to others to bring you there.

 

"To reach a port, we must sail - sail, not tie at anchor - sail, not drift." - Franklin D. Roosevelt

(300 words)