Self-Reflection on Working at a Group Presentation - Essay Example

A reflection on a group presentation The selection of the postcode was W51AA, which represents Hanger Hill. Before settling on this particular location, every group member presented a suggestion on which postcode to be used. The suggestions were numerous depending on the crime rates and condition in the locations. From the list, the group analyzed each and every location on its crime rate status and its ability to provide the group with the required information needed for the project completion. As a collaborative group, the selection of the postcode was done with the consideration of its ability to present significant talking points. Preferably the group aimed a postcode with numerous cases of crimes and an equal presentation of all forms of crimes. Hanger hill was selected as a collaborative decision. All members supported the decision since the postcode was known for its crime rates and it presented numerous talking points that would increase the creativity in the project. In addition, the location was research friendly since most of our group members have visited the place which minimized the challenges that may be presented. After the creation the group, we embraced the assumption that the arrangement provided us with an opportunity to exploit the abilities of each member(Finch & Fafinski, 2012). For this reason, each group member was provided with a specific responsibility and a time framework before they could present their works. However, the activities were conducted in a collaborative manner. For instance, the group member in charge for coming up with online data on the selected postcode requested for website suggestion and all group members obliged to the request. After all responsibilities were presented, the croup would then convene and discuss the results and date collected. At this time, presentation ideas were presented as a collective selection on the idea was reached. However, minor differences were experienced as group members disagreed on the ways of collecting data, the time margin provided and the mode of presentation. In addition, the group lacked motivation and this was a major hindrance to the quality and completion of the project. The group dynamic makes it easy to complete projects since one is able to specialize on one activity and the rest of the members handled other requirements. Research for the presentation was conducted mainly from online sources. Through online sources updated data could be easily obtained (Finch & Fafinski, 2012). The selected postcode provided a difficult task through physical research since it provided an extensive area needed to be covered. The websites we used for research provided reliable data and information since they were connected to government activities. The websites used are: National Statistics Website, U.K Crime Stats website and Metropolitan Police websites. These websites provided updated information on our postcode and limited out task for research conduction. The group used the Rational Choice theory, Strain theory and the Social control theory. The theories were obtained from referring to other projects aimed at understanding the social status on an area. We connected the data collected and the theories by determining which data was a presentation of specific theory. For instance, the social control theory explained the influence of drug and substance abuse in relation to crime(Finch & Fafinski, 2012). From the large information and data we obtained, there was the need to select the most significant data to use for our project. The project required specific presentation of crime rates and different forms of crime in the selected postcode. For this reason, the data and information incorporated in the project reflected the forms of crime and crime rates in the selected postcode. The selection of the date to be used was also a group collective decision. Each group member presented their information and data collected. Collectively we determined which information represented the main objective of our research. In addition, the reliability of the information and data collected was also determined. For instance, the decision to use government based websites was based on that the information that could be obtained is reliable, updated and accurate (Finch & Fafinski, 2012). In addition, the argument was that the data and information used was to be relevant in terms of the time frame and the depth of coverage. To determine the authenticity of the data obtained, we compared the data we collected to the information and data in government websites. If an opportunity to do the project again is presented, it would be more appropriate to do a collective research on the selected postcode. To do this effectively, the size of the postcode would be analyzed and determined. In addition, data collecting methods like sampling would be used to ensure we collected enough and reliable data. Each group member would be required to cover a specific area and provide reliable data and information. The information and date collectedis then compared to information and data in websites conducted on the same period to determine the differences and similarities. Obtaining firsthand information increases the creativity involvement in the project. In addition, group members are provided with the required expertise conduct research both physically and through online sources. If this achieved, it would an ideal group situation where all group members would be directly involved in the project. This would enable learn more from the used data collection and presentation methods. In addition, the group collaborative ability would be booted significantly thus increasing the productivity of all group members (Finch & Fafinski, 2012). It is an obvious assumption that this project has significantly increased my expertise in conducting research. In addition, it has developed my experience as a student as well as a researcher. The data we obtained from websites provided the group with an idea of what is required while taking part in a research with similar requirements. If the ability to do a project which requires active participation of data and information collection presents itself, I would be at a more comfortable position to take part in in the project. In addition, I would use a more personal approach in data collection techniques. Collecting data directly from correspondents puts one in a comfortable position to develop and present the data and information collected. However, the use of online websites for data collection is also equally important. The project by the group can be perceived as a success considering the information and data presented in the project is reliable and updated(Finch & Fafinski, 2012). In future projects, the use of reliable online sources would be a viable option as a researcher is able to understand what is required of them in terms of the appropriateness of data to be collected Prior to the project, I had a steady perception of the postcode used in the research. The perception was judgmental as I could not understand the social influences of the social life in the location. For instance, rising crimes rates in the area shocked me as I could not understand the rising rates. By taking part in the project, I was able to understand the major causes of insecurity. In addition I understood the difficulties people in this community experienced in their daily lives. This enabled me to realize possible strategies that could be used to help reduce crime rates in the community. From this experience, I was also able to appreciate my own community as I felt lucky to live in a safe community. In addition, studying a community enables a person to appreciate their one community (Finch&Fafinski, 2012). Reference Finch, E. and Fafinski, S., 2012.Criminology Skills.Oxford: Oxford University Press. Read More