Critical Reflection

Through this module, I have gained a lot of confidence in both speaking and learning English. As my first language is Chinese, my English language skills were not very fluent, and I found it challenging to express myself effectively in English. This module has been a great warm-up, especially as I prepare for more intense modules in the upcoming trimester. It provided the ideal pace for me to gradually improve my language skills, allowing me to grow more comfortable in both speaking and writing in English.

The module also gave me the opportunity to reflect on my past learning experiences from polytechnic. I have realized that learning is not a one-time process; it is something that involves unlearning and relearning. Over the years, I had developed certain habits and methods of learning, but this module helped me reframe some of my ideas and approaches. I have learned the importance of continuously updating and refining my knowledge, especially when it comes to research methods. For example, I now understand the value of using different platforms like Google Scholars, ChatGPT, and other specialized websites for finding credible information on various topics.

One of the most significant aspects of this module was the project work, where I was able to apply many of the skills I had learned throughout the course. The presentation component taught me that the first and last three minutes are crucial for capturing the audience’s attention. These moments are essential for setting the tone and making a lasting impression. I also learned the importance of smooth transitions between speakers. A presentation is not just about what you say, but how you say it. Verbal elements like tone, pitch, and pace are key to keeping the audience engaged. However, non-verbal communication is just as important. Facial expressions, hand gestures, and even the physical space where we stand during the presentation can have a big impact on how our message is received.

Additionally, I found that painting a scenario or telling a story during the presentation can significantly help to draw the audience in. When you make your ideas relatable and vivid, it allows the listeners to picture the scenario, making it more memorable. This approach also helps the audience to better understand the key points of the presentation.

Working in a team was another important learning experience. In the professional world, we are often required to work with people we may not know well or may not always agree with. This is an essential skill, as teamwork is a fundamental part of most projects. I have learned that communication is key to effective collaboration. It’s important to listen to others, respect their ideas, and contribute your own thoughts in a constructive way. Sometimes, the best solutions come from combining the ideas of different team members, so being open-minded is crucial.

Throughout the course, I also learned the value of flexibility and adaptability. As Professor Blackstone mentioned in one of our lessons, sometimes we need to accept that we cannot do everything on our own. This lesson made me realize that it's okay to rely on others and that teamwork can help us achieve a better outcome than if we were working individually. The ability to acknowledge your limitations and be open to new ideas is an essential skill, not just for academic projects, but for life in general.

I want to take a moment to thank my teammates for their continuous effort and dedication throughout the project. Their commitment and contributions helped make the final product much better than if I had worked alone. I learned so much from their ideas and approaches, and this experience has strengthened my belief in the importance of collaboration.

Finally, I would like to express my gratitude to Professor Blackstone. Thank you for your guidance and support throughout this module. Your teaching has equipped me with valuable skills that I will carry forward, not only in future modules but in all future projects. Your advice and encouragement have helped me to grow both academically and personally.