Critical Reflection

Module Learning:

At the start of the Critical Thinking & Communicating module, I set two key goals: improving my ability to read people through their body language and character traits and enhancing my persuasion skills. Reflecting on these objectives, I believe I have made meaningful progress, although there is still room for improvement.

One valuable aspect of the module was its focus on analyzing non-verbal cues during communication. Through class discussions and group projects, I developed a better understanding of how body language, tone, and facial expressions influence communication. For example, I now recognize subtle indicators of hesitation or agreement in a person's posture or eye movements, which has helped me tailor my responses during discussions. However, I realized that accurately interpreting these cues requires consistent practice and attention.

Regarding persuasion, I benefited greatly from learning to structure arguments effectively. For instance, during a group discussion, I was able to present a more compelling argument, which helped persuade my groupmates. Nevertheless, I recognize that to further enhance my persuasion skills, I need to work on my confidence in high-pressure situations and practice active listening to better address counterarguments.

In conclusion, this module has equipped me with important skills for communication and critical thinking.

Project Learning:

One of the key projects in this module involved a group presentation, which provided valuable insights into my learning, particularly in teamwork and presentation skills. Collaborating with my peers allowed me to see the importance of clear communication and adaptability in achieving collective goals.

During the project, I initially struggled with balancing different perspectives within the group. However, I learned that being open to constructive feedback and negotiating ideas can lead to a more refined final product. For example, one of my peers suggested reorganizing our presentation structure to better highlight key points. While I was initially hesitant, implementing this feedback ultimately made our presentation more cohesive and impactful. This experience taught me the importance of being flexible and viewing challenges as opportunities for growth.

In terms of presentation skills, the project helped me refine how I convey information clearly and persuasively. I practiced using visual aids effectively and maintaining audience engagement through tone and pacing. Although I still feel nervous during presentations, this project taught me the value of preparation and practice in overcoming such challenges. I also learnt the importance of not being reliant on using a script. Additionally, I gained a deeper appreciation for the role of storytelling in making data and concepts more relatable to the audience.

This experience has changed my perspective on learning, showing me that growth often comes from pushing myself outside my comfort zone. 














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