18 October 2008

Xue Xin's Biodata

I am currently an undergraduate majoring in chemistry in the Faculty of Science, National University of Singapore. Doing laboratory work has improved my analytical and observing skills which are valuable tools useful in the future.

I was in the Audio & Visual Club and Science society in my secondary and JC days respectively. This has built up on my ability to troubleshoot problems and be more sensitive towards other people’s feelings. I strive to strike a balance between studies and pursuing my interests by taking up recreational archery, which has trained me on my ability to be more focused and less distracted.

11 October 2008

Reflecting on the Research Project Experience

Jaymie, Mindy and I had been working on the research project for the past few weeks and in a few days’ time the research project will be completed. We started the project by brainstorming on the topic, then went on to gather data and ended by writing a survey report.

There are a few learning points learnt during the course of doing the project. Firstly, effective communication plays a vital role in ensuring the smooth flowing of the project. It facilitates the transmittance of the messages, ensuring that the information gets across to the other project members clearly and not misunderstood. Secondly, team work helps to increase the efficiency of the research project. Dividing the work among us and completing the allocated work and adhering to the agreed deadline will aid in making the project more smooth flowing. Thirdly, I have learnt how to build on interpersonal relationships. As we did not know each other prior to this project, we took some time to get to know each other better. We have to be able to understand and accept one another’s differences, be it in personality or viewpoint. We should show respect to others by allowing them to present their viewpoints, no matter how unfeasible it may be. Lastly, the writing of the final formal report has allowed me to hone my writing skills, which I must admit that it is getting a little rusty.

Active listening and effective oral communication are some of the skills which I can continue to practice in the upcoming oral presentation. These areas of communication will definitely come in handy during the preparation of the oral presentation. One weakness which I think I need to improve on is written communication. I will need to improve on how to write clear, concise reports, and free of grammatical mistakes.

Overall, the research project was an enriching experience.