Thursday, April 17, 2014

Final Reflection on Learning

There has not been many 12 weeks as enriching as the one which just passed, marking the end of ES2007S. Professional communications entails a spectrum of skills which would propel and differentiate us in the workplace. I took the wonderful advice of my friend who had taken this module the semester before, and have never looked back since.

3 points come to mind when I revise the learning outcomes for the module. Firstly, in the workplace or life in general, people skills such as conflict management and being assertive are indispensable. These skills define us, how we perceive ourselves and others, and ultimately shape us into unique individuals.While we communicate verbally, non-verbals are often as important, if not more, as verbal cues. Specific to the workplace, written communication tips were also given. How to convey good and bad news, how we write application letters, these are useful life skills to be equipped with. 

Next, we were exposed to 4 presentation opportunities, consisting of a peer teaching session, research proposal as well as both dry runs. The amount of "air-time" one has in the module does wonders to our presentation prowess. Constant feedback by mdm Radhika and peers were generously exchanged, and have resulted in immense improvements as seen from the final presentation. That was, in my opinion, a "graduation" moment for students in the module. Tips like where to stand, where to place our hands seem trivial but they actually paint a better image of us as presenters. The video recordings of our presentations allow a glimpse of a third party view of ourselves, giving us another perspective to assess ourselves.

Lastly, we experienced firsthand the amount of work needed to create a persuasive proposal. Being able to persuade and convince audiences is yet another important skill at the workplace, this is how we can bring people into our perspective and encourage them to do the same for a common greater good.

This module has been extremely beneficial, especially since I am about to enter the working world. I will keep the learning points in mind, and create a successful personal brand at the workplace.

2 comments:

  1. Jia Jian I think your post is concise and describes very well some of the key things we learnt in this module. I certainly agree with you that all of us were able to improve on our presentation skills in the course of this module. I got the opportunity to learn a lot about presentation skills, preparation, teamwork and audience engagement during our peer teaching project from you and Jerry, Madam Radhika and our peers.

    It was really great meeting you and working with you on the peer teaching project JJ! Congratulations on finally completing your university journey and graduating this semester. Wish you all the very very best in all your future endeavors:) Keep in touch!

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  2. All the best to you JJ in all of your communication at the workplace and on a personal level. Remember to continue honing you skills through self-reflection and through constantly updating yourself on how it can be done better.

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