Narrative Competence Is Very Vital for Professionals - Essay Example

Learning Review The beginning of my learning is marked with the realisation that narrative competence is very vital for professionals, and that the way to develop the skill is to practice reflective writing. In addition, I made the realisation that reflection is a key element in the process of learning (Bolton, 2010). Thus, from the ISW module, I gained the insight that learning is a process that requires continuous synthesis and reflection. In other words, it involves understanding what new knowledge one gained and incorporating the same into ones repertoire. Thus, my reflection started from the skills and knowledge I possessed at the time of joining the module so that I get a better chance of understanding what further I gained from the course. Admittedly, I had a number of skills and knowledge that would enormously help me in my study. First of all, as I have work experience in managerial roles, I have the chances of applying comparative and ideal methods to identify how my perceptions and practice differ from what is required. Another advantage is the supporting educational background I possess. As I have relevant educational background, further learning becomes easy. The last point is the availability of people around me who would be able to help me with my learning difficulties. As Cottrell (2008:5) points out, I spent some time looking into my own learning style before I began this degree course. From there, I gained the insight that the learning style I had adopted previously was rather ineffective. Admittedly, I was a visual/kinaesthetic learner (Cottrell 2008:5) and my learning style can be accurately termed ‘dreamer’ (Cottrell 2008:59). Admittedly, visual learners prefer to learn things through seeing them. For such learners, information absorption becomes easier when there is effective utilisation of pictures, graphs and maps. As I looked into my own learning nature, I found that adopting maps, outlines and diagrams would help me overcome the learning difficulties I face. In addition, I found that by being able to watch the lecture closely or by ensuring eye contact with the speaker, I could improve my learning abilities. In order to utilise the finding in my learning process, I started note taking during class. The notes were not simple writings, but were charts and diagrams when possible, and I tried to keep them colorful and visually attractive. In addition, I started using a pencil to take notes while in class, and the use of pencil allowed me to make corrections when necessary. Admittedly, this process was facilitated by the small, seminar-like class. All these factors helped me employ the active learning approach as suggested by Cottrell (2008, p. 83). However, there was an issue that came up at this stage. I often ended up taking too much notes that I found very difficult to handle later on. Thus, I was in need to develop some strategies to handle the situation. Again, I got the solution from Cottrell (2008, pp. 65-86) as I read ahead. In the fourth chapter, the scholar provides extensive guidelines on ways of dividing tasks, saving time, using time effectively, remaining focused and enthusiastic, and setting and modifying targets. As I absorbed these ideas into my own learning process, I became able to better handle the inflow of information. I could more effectively assimilate information into key concepts and terms. Another area that deserves attention at this juncture is the use of materials outside the reading list. Admittedly, prior to commencing the course, I never thought about reading books outside the curriculum to improve my knowledge. As I realised the importance of using other sources as well, there arose the question of the authenticity of various outside sources; especially the ones from internet. Here, the knowledge about various internet sources and looking into their academic basis proved useful. Thus, I became able to better utilise various sources, especially from the internet but with better caution and care. At this juncture, I started looking into internet sources which are authentic in nature. There I gained a lot of knowledge about learning skills ranging from mind maps, reading strategies, SQ3R, link and story methods, number/rhyme mnemonic and so on. Admittedly, the use of these strategies helped in improving my learning skills. Yet another point of consideration is the improvement that came in my knowledge of various writing styles. Cottrell (2008, p. 286) has made the division between critical and descriptive writing. Along with this, I found the seven point procedure of writing assignments as proposed by Cottrell (2003, p. 152) very useful in writing my assignments effectively. Adding to this knowledge, there is Essay Plan model course handouts, Point Evidence Explanation model, and Thesis and Paragraph Developmental model (Birkbeck, 2009). Thus, as I probed into my own skills, behavior and learning style, I understood the fact that I could effectively modify them to improve my learning and work spheres (Warhurst, 2008). Admittedly, this has enormously helped me in deciding my future course of action too. As I developed by Birbeck study plan, my first year study plan looks into -------------, and the second year plan looks into-------------. In addition, I have developed my S.M.A R.T action plan (Birbeck, 2009) and there is well prepared schedule to develop the skills which are necessary to attain my targets. After completing my graduation, I intend to do a PhD in ----------. Admittedly, the various concepts and ideologies on study I came through in the ISW have changed my concept of learning and work altogether. For example, when I started the course, I cherished the concept that empirical research is the very basis of scientific enquiry. However, as the module progressed, I understood that there are various methodologies and that it is necessary to be flexible and receptive in studies in order to become successful (Fairclough, 2000). In total, as McMillan and Hearn (2009, p. 46) point out, reflection is an effective way to ensure better performance that comes through meaningful motivation. Thus, by completing this learning review, I have gained a better insight into the skills I brought in, the things I learnt, and the areas that need further improvement. In addition, I learnt the importance of having a well defined action plan, how to stay oriented, and how to achieve career aspirations without losing motivation. References Bolton G 2010. Reflective Practice: Writing and Professional Development, SAGE Publications, London. Cottrell, S 2008, The Study Skills Handbook, Palgrave Macmillan, UK. Cottrell, S 2003, Skills for Success: The Personal Development Planning Handbook, Palgrave Macmillan, UK. Fairclough, N 2000, ‘Discourse, social theory and social Research: The discourse of welfare reform’, Journal of Sociolinguistics, vol.4, no.2, pp.163-195. McMillan, J & Hearn, J 2009, ‘Student self-assessment’, Education Digest, vol.74, no.8, pp. 40-49. Warhurst, R 2008, ‘Reflections on reflective learning in professional formation’, Studies in the Education of Adults, vol.40, no.2, pp.176-191. Read More