Reflective writing

Reflective writing
Tertiary education plays a significant role in individual’s life: it is a milestone when people learn academic skills needed to build their future carrier. Having started studying in Namangan State University, I realized that it had been the right choice. During the first semester of the academic year I had an opportunity to gain experience from various subjects. In this essay I will reflect on one of them, Integrated Skills.
With completing of the first term in Integrated Skills I was able to benefit from a variety of new things. Firstly, IS was very helpful for me to improve my topic-based vocabulary. Throughout the semester I worked on four projects in total, which means four different sets of words on the topics. Secondly, I learned new facts about the culture of English speaking countries. I learned that although they share a common language, each country has its own cultural background which is unique. For example, India has kept its national traditions and customs despite the fact English became its main language to unite people who speak numerous local languages. What’s more, conducting the projects helped me to develop my research skills, from which I took the advantage in other subjects as well. Because they help me find relevant information, identify trusted sources, analyse them.
The projects were based on team work where we were encouraged to collaborate with the group. In general, it was a fascinating experience since everyone had their own opinion which was quite different from other members’. It was interesting to listen to these ideas, develop a new perspective on the topic. However, these ideas, in particular, caused difficulties during projects. As each member tried to approve of their opinion to be right, there were some disagreements on what to do - what materials to use, what format to apply, what information to present. Nevertheless, we learned to negotiate with each other through discussions. Another hurdle was indifference and irresponsibility of some of the members. For instance, they were late for the presentation, they were not ready for the presentation, they did not come to the presentation or they did not participate in the project at all. These kinds of behaviour were especially problematic for me, because I do not have the power of forcing people do what they are not willing to, though I tried my best to make sure all of the presentations were not spoiled by them.
As a team member, I was the organizer: dividing the roles, making sure everything is arranged properly. This is, in my opinion, because of the fact that I have the leadership ability with good persuading skills by nature. Technical support was also my responsibility because I have good computer skills. I prepared all of the MS PowerPoint Presentation documents and other audio-video materials.
Before IS projects I had very narrow understanding of English speaking countries. I used to think that an English speaking country is the country with western culture. But during the projects I found out that English speaking countries host immense cultural diversity starting with Asian countries to distant Pacific countries. Each country has its unique and intriguing traditions, food, clothes, lifestyle.
All in all, IS has played a crucial role in my university studies. It has changed my perceptions and attitudes towards the target culture. I have learned a whole new range of facts, developed my intercultural awareness as well as my academic skills like public speaking, doing a research, collaborating.
579 words
By Dilnoza Jurabayeva