Baran Shajari
Course Reflection
When I first started this course, my understanding of research and writing was very limited. I knew how to analyze information but would struggle with presenting them in a well organized manner. I also knew how to do research but didn't know how to research professionally using key words and filters. However, this course helped me develop a better approach on organizing and structuring my ideas. Further, this course made me a much better communicator after having multiple user testing and feedback sessions in class.
Going back to my initial assignment, I can see how much progress I have made through this course. In the first assignment, I have used generic terms and there wasn't much white space or headings in my paragraphs. In the later assignments, I was much more mindful of selecting different headings and making sure my writing is clear to read for everyone and I was able to produce a higher quality work.
During my initial projects, I faced a significant challenge regarding what information to prioritize while conducting research and reading various articles. However, as I improved my analytical skills, I understood that I needed to extract relevant information from the articles that my targeted audience would like to know. By doing so, I could effectively communicate the most critical and relevant information to my audience.
Another important lesson I learned while working on these projects was to be open to criticism and feedback on my work. User testing and receiving feedback from peers can seem daunting, but accepting and implementing that feedback in your work will always work to your advantage.
One of the most significant lessons I learned in this course was that there is always room for improvement, and people should be aware of the things they don't know and strive to learn more about them. I understand that the methods of research and writing are continuously evolving as new tools are developed, and it's crucial that we learn how to use these tools effectively to enhance our work.
As I progress in my life and career, I intend to utilize the research and writing techniques I acquired in this course, as effective communication is vital in the workplace environment. I am confident that I can execute tasks such as information analysis and report writing efficiently, and I am to learn more and enhance my skills as I advance.