Friday, November 7, 2008

blog post 7

It seems like yesterday when I first started writing my first blog post. A blink of an eye accompanied by a pail load of tears and sweat, WA LA! Here I am in week 12 of the course and typing my final blog post. I have learnt so much with regards to effective communication since I took this module. Firstly the route to effective communication is not merely a vocal one. Writing as a mode of communication is equally important. From agendas to minutes, research reports to resumes, I must say that I have to a certain extent gained the necessary skills to confidently communicate my intentions in writing. Not neglecting my reflections on vocal communication skills, I have also learnt the importance of fostering effective inter-cultural communication channels with people from different countries and most importantly in my opinion empathy when it comes to vocal communication. Learning more about non verbal communication cues was interesting as I never knew that there would be so many aspects in this area of study and as such I am more aware of non verbal cues whenever I speak to someone.

I believe that one of the more important skills that I have gained from this module is the knowledge of how to write a job application letter and a resume. Being a 3rd year Biology student, it is even more important that I have these skills as I will be soon be applying for jobs next year when I graduate. The mock interviews that we had really gave me an insight on how interviews are actually carried out in the ‘real world’ and the ‘tricky’ questions that would be asked during an interview. The process of writing the research report was tedious but it gave me the necessary knowledge and experience of writing one. I might have to write a report of this nature when I start working and I am the certain that what I have learn from writing this research report will definitely be of great help.

To conclude, the skills that I have gained from this module are more practical rather than academic. I could not have enjoyed this module any better if it wasn’t for my group members Alethea, Jeremy and Woody. You guys rock! :). Most importantly I would like to thank Brad for his invaluable guidance and his constant words of encouragement. Thanks once again :)