Post 6

Term project was the highlight of this module. We were asked to write a proposal to the URA in which we had to identify a problem in Singapore’s urban landscape and propose a solution to rectify that problem. As a group we decided to address the issue of Singapore’s increasing carbon footprint. After deciding on the problem we started researching for possible solutions. The main catch in this proposal was that we had to come up with a solution that could be implemented by the URA. This was the first, and thankfully the only hiccough we experienced for this project. However, we got over it and proposed an increase in the number of CNG stations, in order to promote the use of this environmentally friendly fuel. Whole credit goes to Ms. Radhika who patiently listened to ideas we bounced off of her and gave us immensely valuable feedback which helped us a lot in coming up with a viable solution.

Once we got a direction, everything else became quite easy and enjoyable. We managed time very effectively and therefore we were able to come up with a respectable piece of work within the timeframe. All the group members contributed to the fullest of their potential. Things we learned from peer-teaching helped us a lot in getting things done. Because of those teaching sessions we were able to conduct a successful survey for our primary research and also set up an online wiki to share information efficiently without meeting face-to-face. However, we did not completely substitute face-to-face meetings with online meetings, and I am glad we did not do that. Hence, not only did we get a chance to discuss and debate matters more effectively, but we also got the opportunity to bond with each other. That’s why I think I have made long lasting friends through the platform of this module. In the end I would just like to say that it was by far the best course I have studied. The whole module was like a beautiful symphony and the conductor of the orchestra performing that symphony was no less than Mozart. That’s you Miss RadhikaJ.

Post 5

Yesterday we were given a chance to present our research project in front of our peers. Not only we got the opportunity to express our ideas regarding urban redevelopment but also got a chance to brush up on our oral presentation skills. Being a science student, I did not have many avenues to present in front of a group; therefore it was a very effective learning experience for me. The valuable feedback from Prof. Radhika and fellow colleagues was the most important aspect of this exercise.

Overall I received positive reviews from all the audience. They felt that I was very confident and composed. Ms. Radhika said that it looked like I had a firm grip on the content which I was presenting. All of these complements were very encouraging as I did not have much prior experience in oral presentations. However, some weaknesses were also identified. Ms. Radhika mentioned that I looked a bit too relaxed which shows a lack of enthusiasm. Another student mentioned that my slides lacked in content due to which it was hard for him to follow the presentation. This shows that there is still a lot of room for improvement and I hope I will be able to overcome those weaknesses in future presentations.

The best part of the presentation was the Question/Answer session. A lot of difficult questions were thrown at us, but we managed to provide satisfactory answers to most of them. It was a true team effort and it also shows that all the group members knew the topic inside out. Most of all it was a fun experience.