At the beginning of this module, my level of understanding for effective communication revolved mainly around intergroup communication. It was a one-sided perspective and I must admit that I wasn’t sure of what I would bring back from this course. However, I am extremely glad to have learnt many valuable and interesting forms of communication through ES2007S.
The most relevant topic that has benefitted me has to be Fostering Intercultural Communication. I will be going on a Student Exchange Programme (SEP) to Hawaii next semester and what I have learnt in this module had made me more aware of the different concepts of time and appropriate ethical behaviour in different countries. An improved level of cultural awareness has even influenced the way I correspond with the staff from the Hawaiian university as we liaise on official documents and housing.
More recently, the classes on Job Search Communication has also taught me the importance of choosing the right job for me. It is extremely crucial to apply for a job that suits your passion and character so as to enjoy working with colleagues. I have acquired essential skills on preparing (eg. Smart dressing, reviewing of possible interview questions) and performing confidently at job interviews. With this, I feel much better equipped to enter the workforce upon graduation.
Finally, the issue of being an effective team player is as pertinent as ever. The group research project enabled me to practice what I have learnt about active listening and non-verbal communication cues. Through this journey, I am thankful for having project mates that are easy to work with, and having an opportunity to make new friends in class with the occasional group discussions. The social interaction provided in this module certainly makes it stand-out from the usual Science modules.
7 comments:
Hi Yingfeng, I am glad that you have gained so much from this short span of 12 weeks.
Yes indeed, fostering intercultural communication is vital for me too, as I seek to go on Summer Programme mid next year for overseas exchange as well. I am sure we will be able to apply the knowledge we have gained from this module during our stay abroad.
Truly, this module is unlike most other Science modules we are used to. It has been an enriching experience for us.
It is definitely good to see that you have managed to gain so much from this module. I agree with you that unlike many other Science modules, this module is very applicable to all aspects of our life and you will find the skills picked up from this module beneficial in the long run.
Yes, being able to go on overseas expeditions and study programmes would definitely put the relevant knowledge and skills that you have learnt in this course to good test especially when you will be visiting places with different cultures and living habits from us. Don't fret but learn to adapt in this new environment and in the meantime, do portray well of our image and get them to learn and understand our attributes too! It will certainly be a worthwhile experience which compounds to what you have picked up so far.
Hi Ying Feng,
I sincerely hope that skills learnt in fostering intercultural communications would help you build life-long intercultural friendships in your summer exchange programme. I have seen many peers and seniors who went on exchange programs but only interacted with Singaporeans who went on exchange with them! Having the opportunity to go overseas for study is an invaluable experience not everyone can afford, so make the best of it! Hope you have a fun and rewarding trip!
Joceyln: maybe we could meet up again after our respective exchange programmes to shape more about our experiences overseas! Let's see if we would be able to put what we have learnt to good use :)
It would be a good idea to exchange ideas with friends after the overseas study trips!
Wish you all the best!
Hello,
Glad we made the right choice to take this module as a group. No doubt there are many valuable lessons that we can take out from this course, i think the most important thing apart from the values is the experience to work with you as a project group mate. You have done your job well, and have shown to be a very effective team player.
All the best in your coming exams and also your SEP
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