Saturday, November 14, 2009

Final Reflection


The semester is finally coming to an end, but it seems like only yesterday that the ES2007S class started. Before the class, many of my friends told me this module would be intensive. Indeed, it was intensive in terms of heavy editing and readings. However, there was fun interaction in the class even despite the heavy work load. My actual intention was to learn how to write a better job application letter and resume. But as the lessons progressed, I realized that communication was even more important than having a quality resume or application letter.

This course has allowed me to explore my weaknesses in communicating effectively and improve on it. One of my weaknesses is that I was not effectively bringing my points across during a conversation. One activity that left a strong impression on me was where everyone had to assume different positions. From that activity, I learnt that by standing at different positions, a situation can be viewed differently. Hence, I have learnt to be accepting of other people’s views and comments.

Besides communication, the interactions among my classmates allowed me to notice other people’s positive personality. Learning from others, I was able to empathize more and be positive in every difficult situation. Although the result is not immediately apparent, it is slowly shaping. One of my friend commented that I am now surrounded by a positive vibe.

At the end of the day, I think I have learnt and took much more from this course than any classes I took. Even though the workload was intensive, the learning experience was worth it. There are so much that I learnt from the course that could not be found in the textbook.

I am glad that I took up this module and got to know everyone in my class. Can’t wait to reunite with everyone on the 3rd December Thursday! :D

With all the loves,
Yuanhua

6 comments:

Peiling said...

Hi Huahua!

I agree with you that we have learned way beyond the syllabus for ES2007S. Although workload for this module may be intensive, we were able to apply what we learned in a short period of time.

As you have mentioned, you are able to improve on your interpersonal and communication skills through the lessons. Me too! I felt that I have learned so much from the weekly interactions with Brad and our classmates. I’m glad that we are able to work on our weaknesses and improve on them.

All the best to your exams! And yes, I’m looking forward to 3rd December too! =)

Peiling

Anonymous said...

Hey Huahua!

I remember how apprehensive we first were in bidding for this module.due to the heavy workload!But now as we look back, its not so bad after all right? =)))

Hopefully many years later, we would still be able to remember and apply the things learnt in class!

Ruthie

shiny_eatsmudpie said...

A succinct summary of how the module has transformed not only your belief on communication, but the way you practised it as well. I believe many of us have been “brainwashed” and slowly sculpt into someone who could effectively express himself/herself, has control over own emotions and is sensitive to other peoples’ emotions too!

I agree with you that all the skills that we picked up along the way are beyond what the textbooks could impart us. Though the module has come to an end, the skills and experiences we gained will follow us a long way.

Love,
Shiny

shiny_eatsmudpie said...

Good luck for the coming exams!! *muack*

Z Bang said...

Hi Yuan Hua,

I remembered the activity you mentioned. During that time, We thought that our "answers" were not that mature. After going through the whole process, I believe we will react differently under the same circumstances.

We might forget the format of application letter of resume, but all the skills and experiences we obtain from this course will be used again and again in our future.

All the best, Yuan Hua. =)

Brad Blackstone said...

Thank you, Yuanhua, for this very good reflection on your learning and also for all the effort you made facing the many challenges aid ahead of you this term. I really appreciate that. I was especially impressed by how well your group bonded and then worked together. You developed an interesting and relevant topic, made a fine proposal and then did a fine job selling your ideas in the presentation. In that exercise you showed that you had integrated so many of the principles that we had been discussing.

In this post, it's also noteworthy how you mention that doing the resume and the application letter are just a small part of the realm in communication. That is so true, of course. It doesn't surprise me that students are interested in gaining the tools that will make their application process run more smoothly. I am a bit surprised though when people think that is the key focus of the course.

In any case, you've done a very fine job, Yuanhua. All the best in your future!