Reflection

At the beginning of this module, I set two main goals for myself: to gain more confidence when addressing a large group and to improve my English communication skills. Looking back, I can confidently say that I have made progress in both areas, though not much, I recognise that growth is an ongoing process.

One of the most valuable aspects of this course was learning how to write various formal documents, such as letters, meeting minutes, reader response and technical proposal. Before this module, I found it challenging to structure my writing properly, but through practice and feedback, I have developed a stronger ability to present information clearly and professionally. Writing formal letters and citing sources in APA 7th edition style have also improved my attention to detail and my ability to communicate ideas in a structured manner.

Critical thinking was another key area of growth for me. Learning about different models, such as Dewey’s model, helped me approach problem-solving in a more structured way. The PEEL (Point, Evidence, Explanation, Link) method, in particular, was extremely helpful in improving the clarity and coherence of my reports. I now feel more confident in my ability to analyze problems and present well-supported solutions.

Beyond writing, this module greatly contributed to my confidence in speaking, especially when addressing a large audience. Initially, I struggled with nervousness and lacked the confidence to engage my listeners effectively. Reading aloud in classes was something I always tried to avoid being called upon, which to my dismay, Professor Brad would often call my name. However, thanks to his persistence in calling me out, it greatly helped me in speaking in front of a class, as I was afraid of wrong pronunciations hence the avoidance. I found myself slowly growing to be more comfortable in these situations, which I’m absolutely thankful for.

To prepare for our oral presentation, I learned how to maintain proper eye contact, control my posture, and use the right tone and flow to keep the audience engaged. Additionally, I gained valuable experience in designing appropriate slides that complement my spoken presentation rather than overwhelming the audience with too much information. These improvements have helped me become more comfortable and articulate when presenting my ideas.

Working with my teammates on our research project also strengthened my communication skills. I learned how to communicate my thoughts clearly while also being an active listener. I was lucky to have teammates who are understanding and easy-going, hence there weren't many conflicts within the team. Moreover, I got to learn the ways to maximize the usage of AI tools from my teammates, which is extremely important in this age of technology. This experience reinforced the importance of teamwork and respectful communication.

While I have made considerable progress in both my confidence and communication skills, I recognize that there is always room for improvement. Moving forward, I plan to continue refining my presentation skills by practicing public speaking and seeking feedback. Additionally, I will work on expanding my vocabulary and improving the fluency of my written and spoken English.

Overall, this module has been a transformative learning experience. It has not only helped me achieve my initial goals but has also changed my perspective on learning. I have realized that growth comes from continuous effort and application, and I am excited to build on the skills I have developed in this course.