Critical Reflection

Module learning

The two main goals I have set at the start of the Effective Communication module was to be able to improve on my writing skills and able to step out of my comfort zone.

Before the start of this module, I was not strong with my language which affected my writing and I aim to improve it. Throughout this module, I was able to do and learn the different types of writing. I was able to know how to paraphrase and summarise without changing the meaning of the whole sentence which is important for our writing to avoid plagiarism. 

Stepping out of my comfort zone where I was able to present and discuss more during the lesson. Throughout the module, I have learnt some valuable steps on how to present and do a pitch correctly. For example, capturing the audience's attention by asking questions and even eye contact. In my previous presentation in polytechnic, I was allowed to refer to my script and present it to the class and there was no proper feedback on my presentation. Whereas this module I was able to receive feedback from both my coursemate and professor. However, referring to the script was not allowed and it was difficult for me since I was not used to it.

Despite the COVID-19 restriction, the class was able to do the presentation in school, however, I was not totally prepared for it and it has been a long time since I presented in front of a class physically. For the next physical presentation, I need to improve on my presentation skills such as being able to engage in eye contact which truthfully, I am bad at. Not only that I need to build on my confidence and not feel scared when presenting in front of the class.

Project learning

Throughout the first semester, there are different types of assignments we need to do. One of them is a technical report. For this assignment, the class was separated into groups and needed to come out of one possible topic and write a proposal report. This assignment helps the group on how to write a proper proposal report which includes a transmittal letter, executive summary and problem statement. Together with the proposal report, we need to do a presentation. 

There are multiple skills we get to improve on with the assignment such as writing skills, teamwork skills and presentation skills. Personally, I feel like I have improved on my teamwork skills such as communication, active listening and time management.

My past experience with team reports was that we assigned different parts to different members and do our own part and compiled all of our work as one with not much discussion. However, with this assignment, we are able to meet up every week to do the proposal together. This experience allows me to change the perspective of group work and able to understand more on the topic. The group project also helps to improve my communication skills where I need to express my own opinion and for the group to understand it. 

The proposal report is also a new experience where I get to learn how to write a proposal report and introduce our proposal to a company. This experience also makes us think about general and the company thoughts of our proposal and whether is it a good implementation or not. 

Overall all the projects was a new experience where I was not able to experience during my three years in the polytechnic.  I get to change my perspective in group work and able to work with my coursemate closely.