Critical Reflection

 

In the aspects of learning throughout the duration of the 13 weeks, there is a substantial amount, and every topic of discussion is essential. One subject matter that is truly important in my eyes would the implementation of proper citation in our works. Back in Polytechnic education, I gave only a minimum degree of attention to citation conventions, and to tell the truth, after serving 2 years of National Service, have forgotten how to cite. This module presents itself as a form of learning something new as well as a refresher in that aspect. The style of focus for citations in this class was the American Psychological Association (APA) style and now I have greater confidence in the standards required by this style when it is to be used in my works in the future. Knowing a great deal about citation conventions has proven beneficial as in the Electrical Circuits Analysis report, we were required to use (IEE) style and I was able to just tweak the report accordingly with minimal effort thanks to my prior knowledge of citation conventions. In terms of critical thinking, I have objectively learned that feedback is important and that one must be open to criticism to improve themselves. Principles such as the 7 C’s of Communication are pivotal and would be the driving factor for me making decisions be it in school or at work in the times to come. I believe that being clear and courteous are key factors. Clarity allows people to understand my perspective and the message I want to deliver while having empathy goes a long way in understanding people’s feelings and ideas.

A positive I have drawn from the project, BackFlex’s implementation of sensors in a weightlifting belt is that I was able to go through an almost like-for-like scenario of the show Shark Tank. The process of identifying a design/product and drawing out the possible viable improvements that can be implemented warrants my interest. You could say I enjoyed designing and coming up with ideas that could possibly improve the lives of people. I believe that when I am in the corporate world, my work would require me to possibly do Research and Development in a design team and this sets the course for that. I would group the delivery of an effective presentation and pitching ideas as a whole and that it is of utmost importance for use in any aspect of life. From the stories I have heard of my friends or even people that already working, which is related to my field, the majority have highlighted that presentations represent one of the key components of what we would be doing in the workforce. One is required to present to their bosses frequently and the teachings from this module have increased my understanding of what is required and my confidence greatly. As mentioned in my summary reader response, the main weakness I identified was being nervy during presentations. Nervousness will get the better of me and due to that, ideas and words that I hope to bring out end up being boggled down by my stuttering words. This module is successful in instilling in me the confidence that I can indeed host a proper presentation through insightful preparation and the key points in the delivery. However, there is still much I can learn and improve and that shall come with more practice and presentations in the future.

                In conclusion, the Critical Thinking module as a whole has been truly beneficial in supplementing my learning of the English language. We never stop learning even as we get older, and knowledge comes in a variety of forms. I have an improved grasp of the language thanks to the module and more importantly because of Professor Brad. He has been instrumental in making this module fun and interactive. It is clear that he has good control of the subject which comes from his prior experiences and knowledge. He also happens to be one of the few Professors whose lessons I enjoyed this term.