A Reflective Statement
In this class, group work was emphasized in order to enhance student learning and skill achievement in the field. However, emphasis was placed on the need to understand the importance of the topic in a particular case, rather than the theoretical framework of the topic. The training session on this topic was developed in a format that allowed the student not only to understand, but also to get firsthand experience on the need to have learning and teaching skills on other topics. In this class, we were divided into groups of four students, where each of the groups was asked to discuss and present a report on the topic. We carried out a comprehensive search on the topic provided, from the internet to the library and review of available papers on the same. The situation was quite challenging, as each student in my group had to present an individual report on the topic, and which was supposed to be different from those submitted by the other three colleagues.
From the group work, I realized that there is no work that cannot be completed in time and with limited resources. I realized that time limitation does not necessarily mean that work will not be competed at the required time. Team work, which was represented by the groups we had formed, helped me realize the need to combine abilities and to share ideas in any work that we undertake. For sure, the work was not easy. I went through a number of papers, books and web pages looking for the best and the most updated information on the topic. There was a common feeling that although the work was intense and difficult, it gave us an opportunity to focus on enhancing our study skills, improve on the areas one is weak in and to increase the knowledge one has. I felt that although I was challenged, I was in a position to carry out difficult work in future. This feeling was quite important to me and to the other members of the groups and the entire class at large. This is because, if the topic was left to be studied by students on an individual basis, then I believe that the information that each student would have gathered would be quite small, while students would just focus on a few areas that would be common to all.
From this experience, I found out that group work is an important tool in teaching challenging and dynamic topics in education. It was further noted that students working as groups developed interests in the topic, as each student was challenged to produce a report on the topic to the individual group. Each group in our class carried out a comprehensive search for materials pertaining to the topic of study, and which were then developed into a fine report and submitted to the class in general. This implies that the students are in a better position to teach them, and at the same time gain presentation and public speaking skills. In general sense, it is conclusive that the group work method of teaching is important as an alternative tool to classroom learning.
In my personal observation, I realized that I had gained a lot in the topic, as it appeared difficult to me. In addition, I realized that I had the potential to search for materials from diverse sources, and that my writing, as well as report presentation skills, is quite good. However, I realized that I had to do more work to ensure that I manage my time in a manner that would allow for all tasks to be completed as scheduled.
To improve on this, I have to work on more projects and topics similar to the one we took in the previous situation in order to enhance my time management skills. In addition, I will focus on reviewing time management plans and schedule development skills in the future.
