It is definitely an interesting and enriching experience working with Jia Hwa, Chen Xin and Edwin. We started doing the project with us not knowing each other at all. It may be a little bit different working with people whom we are not familiar with as we are usually more able to understand the thoughts and feelings of the people we know better and easier. Therefore, communication is especially important. Communication was a bit difficult for me at first but had become easier as we get to know each other.
Other than that, communication was rather effective in my group which I think is needed for any group project. We shared ideas and expressed any opinions that we have. Active listening and being open-minded play important roles for effective communication to take place. It’s crucial to practice active listening so that we will know what is going on and discussed. This will prevent misunderstanding in things we have to do. We also clarify whenever in doubts. This will make things clearer and make sure that everyone is on the right track. Different people may have different ideas which may even be a better one. Therefore it’s important for one to listen and be open to new ideas instead of being stubborn and only stick to what he/she thinks.
Due to the tight schedule that we have, we split the work to increase efficiency. As part of teamwork, being responsible for the work assigned and keeping to datelines is essential. We all did our parts and tried to send it to the others by the certain date we set. It prevents other members from having to do extra work or any unhappiness that may arise.
This is the first time I’m doing such a proper and “formal” project. I’ve learnt that there are actually so many parts in report writing and that we have to focus on the research question and objectives to avoid going out of point. Also, we have to organize writings and make it flow so that it’s easier for readers to understand what the report is about.
We had problems with time. The four of us are from different discipline and have different commitments. The difference in timetable makes it very difficult for us to find time for discussion. We even tried to do our discussion through MSN but it was not very effective. In addition, the project clashes with our mid-term exam. Time management is then important. While everyone is busy mugging for their exam, we also have to find time for the project.
Subscribe to:
Post Comments (Atom)
3 comments:
Hey Dai Jing, I had the same problem with working with new people. Basically, some people have different ways of listening. I for one do not like detailed, lengthy information when people express their opinions. (That explains my 'spaced-out' look whenever someone talks!) Let's just say I'm more of the 'straight to the point' person. However, I can't just tell the other person to 'shut it'. So i guess this is where active listening comes in.
I agree with 'splitting the workload' method of getting a job done. BUT i do feel that sometimes, its better that the group sits together to evaluate and proof-read each other work. I had experience when I emailed an essay to some mates to check and they basically altered the whole objective of the essay based on their interpretation. And its all because I didn't convey my ideas.
Anyways, its great that almost every group had a positive experience!
Hey Dai Jing!!
I agree with you on the point that listening is very important when working with others. I admit that i have the tendency to hear and not listen to others when i am working on something. I am not mindful of my surrounding. Anyway, being open minded is also crucial, otherwise, there will be conflicts and misunderstandings amongst the group members. I am glad that nothing of that sort happened!
I think that we have not only learn how to do a formal project but also how to work with unfamiliar people. This would be part and parcel of our lives in the future. This is a good training on how we should work with others and how we should conduct ourselves in front of others.
Compromising is also a key to have successful meetings and projects done. We should give and take whenever necessary as that the best option can be used to solve problems etc.
Congrats on the completion of the written submission!
Dear Dai Jing,
I'm glad you had an enriching and interesting experience and in the process gained new knowledge about doing a research report as well.
I'm happy to hear too that active listening was practised and that you were all open-minded to each other. These are certainly some of the essentials to effective communication.
Post a Comment