Referencing in academic work or writing is crucial and should always be very accurate. In essence, allows us to recognize, acknowledge and appreciate the contribution of other authors and writers in the process of research. In addition, it enables the readers of the researched work to trace the origin of the information included in research documentation (Deane, 2010). Further, it is crucial because it ensures that the research is academically credible hence more persuading and credible on the eyes of the readers.
Importantly, when conducting research on a given topic, the researcher should do a thorough and accurate search of credible, relevant and reliable resources. These resources can be textbooks, journals, and online platforms such as websites, electronic newspapers or online magazines. After identifying the sources, the researcher reads them to find the required information, understands, and then proceeds to paraphrase those ideas in an orderly manner. Paraphrasing, therefore, involves interpretation and subsequent expression of ones thoughts concerning the issues raised by the author. It is critical for the researcher to use his/her own words and summarize the ideas to avoid reproducing the authors information which is already documented. in addition, it prevents any issues that might arise as plagiarism. Significantly, also, it boosts ones understanding of the ideas before writing them down. Different types of contents from these sources can be used when referencing. In principle, they include videos, industrial information, company statistics, maps, and data collected during research.
Essentially, plagiarism is the act of using an academic source without recognizing or acknowledging the origin of those sources (Williams & Carroll, 2009). It can be avoided by paraphrasing an article and putting it in your words as discussed above. In addition, citing the sources properly and quoting the materials used is also necessary despite paraphrasing. correctly. Referencing can be conducted using different formats such as APA, MLA, Havard and Chicago among others. Yet, whereas referencing and paraphrasing is very crucial, it is also important to ensure that the information included is relevant to the research questions and objectives. As part of my reflection and expectation, doing research will add more insight to my existing body of knowledge.
1. To promote the growth of my researching and documenting skills
2. To frequently review my performance at set intervals particularly on monthly basis.
3. To learn the art of planning and goal setting to help in boosting my focus and prepare for the corporate world.
4. To search and identify credible academic journals that I will use for future research.
5. To get equipped with the technical skill as far as engineering is concerned in line with the course outline.
A group of people become more functional and efficient team when they have a clear purpose that is stipulated by the vision statement. This vision articulation and achievement requires leadership. In principle, the vision statement states the main aim of the team and guides individuals on what is expected. It also encourages and motivate them to achieve these aims. Now, leadership plays a vital role in team management because it helps to create a healthy culture which can absorb diverse people yet ensure that they have a common objective. In addition, leaders are mandated to assign distinct roles so that each is aware of their obligation.
Teamwork leads to more creativity and learning through interactions and sharing. Since team members come from diverse backgrounds, a team provides rich information due to diversity of ideas. Members are able to widen their mindset through group-based critical thinking, sharing of ideas, and conflict resolution. However, there are various challenges that come with teamwork and the group dynamics. In this regard, some members may not be good team players thus affecting its progress and effectiveness. This can be avoided by selecting team members who can relate. Inherent conflicts are also common among the team members. These conflicts should be dealt with by understanding the underlying causes first and then solving them. Since it becomes complicated to control a big team, it is advisable to have a relatively small or manageable number of members. Importantly, effective leadership empowers those members by involving them in decision making. This can be achieved by giving each member a chance during the discussions. Good leaders also promote clarity through proper communication thus boosting the efficiency of the team (Collinson, 2011).
References
Collinson, D. (2011). Leadership. Los Angeles: Sage.
Deane, M. (2010). Academic researching, writing and referencing. Harlow: Longman.
Williams, K., & Carroll, J. (2009). Referencing & understanding plagiarism. Houndmills, Basingstoke, Hampshire: Palgrave Macmillan.
