Critical Reflection

Module Learning:

Even before starting this module, I recognized my existing lack of confidence in both writing and communication. However, the full realisation of these concerns only dawned on me as I immersed myself in the challenges and opportunities of the trimester. The aspiration to master natural and skillful public speaking emerged as an unexplored realm, prompting me to confront my "stage fright" and seek effective strategies for boosting my confidence and refining my communication skills.

As the trimester unfolded, I delved into crafting formal reports under deadline pressures. This domain presented challenges intertwined with a genuine eagerness for improvement. Exposure to the Paul Elder framework and the application of the PEEL structure provided a systematic approach to content creation, marking a pivotal point in my learning journey. Engaging in extensive research, utilising platforms like Google Scholar, Library OneSearch, and ChatGPT, became foundational, significantly contributing to my skill development. Reacquainting myself with the nuances of APA7 citation style further polished my writing skills and, consequently, my confidence.

Throughout this transformative journey, the module's comprehensive online resources and well-structured in-class content served as invaluable references when navigating challenges in assignments. Adhering to writing conventions, encompassing both language use and citations, emerged as a cornerstone, significantly bolstering my confidence in both academic and technical writing.

Project Learning:

Engaging in project collaborations consistently provides me with unique and enriching experiences. My adaptive and flexible communication style played a pivotal role in facilitating smooth collaboration with teammates, ultimately elevating our collective output. From the initial stages to culmination, this journey marked a transformative process that revealed my openness to diverse ideas and highlighted the necessity of balancing enthusiasm with focused viewpoints during our group discussions.

The cornerstone of effective team collaboration, as I discovered, is communication. This realisation underscored the importance of transparent communication in maintaining cohesive teamwork. Proactively keeping teammates informed about changes and seeking guidance when uncertainties about content or language arose became integral to our success. Embracing the collaborative nature of brainstorming emerged as a clear strategy, emphasising constructive countering of ideas while preserving a respectful dialogue within the team.

Reflecting on my project experiences, a profound recognition emerged regarding the intrinsic value of relying on teammates. Seeking assurance or guidance was not viewed as a sign of weakness but rather as a demonstration of a collaborative mindset. The module, in essence, fostered an environment that not only accepted but encouraged learning from peers, fundamentally reshaping my perspective on teamwork.

In summary, the Critical Thinking & Communicating Module has been instrumental in instilling newfound confidence in both writing and oral communication. It uncovered effective presentation techniques and honed my collaborative skills. The transformative nature of this journey serves as a testament to the power of embracing challenges, adapting communication styles, and fostering a collaborative mindset. As I continue on this reflective journey, I anticipate continual growth, not only in the academic realm but also in my professional endeavours. This module has truly laid the groundwork for a sustained evolution in my approach to collaborative endeavours, emphasising the importance of effective communication and a synergistic team spirit.