Chukwunonso Akaeme

Retell: I received feedback from my professor on my literature review on the 28^th of July following my submission two weeks before. Specifically, I was advised to include unknown elements/limitations of the research to better justify why it was appropriate to ask the research question, what is the impact of background music on learning in primary school students. Additionally, I was advised to include a research scope section and to ensure my literature review had a better structure. So, to address these issues, I made a list of the feedback and highlighted the areas for improvement then I made revisions to the review to include research scope and limitations of the study in my presentation assessment while also ensuring that the presentation followed a logical structure and was well-organized. The result of this revision helped provide pointers for the presentation video and was also in alignment with the requirements for the presentation assessment.

Relate: I have received feedback in a past course, science in practice when I failed to write my first research diary in the correct 4Rs format so I had to make sure that changes applied in the continuous research diary inputs for that course and I eventually received a positive comment from my professor acknowledging my improvement. I believe receiving feedback and acting on it is necessary for improvement in academic writing so this past experience helped me recognize the importance of improving upon one’s project when given feedback and I knew I had to put in effort to address it.

Reflect: Initially, I felt a bit overwhelmed by the extent of the changes required, especially since I had thought the review was great, at the risk of sounding bias. However, I knew that I had to make those changes and include the unknown elements, research scope and make sure the slides were presented in a logical and organized structure because failure to do so would create a ripple effect of repeated feedback on the same issue and the assignment of low scores for ignoring previous feedback. As I worked on my revision and transformed the review into presentation-worthy slides, I realized that the feedback was aimed at helping me improve. I also noticed that the changes I made to the presentation document by including research scope and unknown elements, formed a major part of my video presentation and I was able to understand and explain the research topic better which made me feel more confident about my work. In the end, I appreciated the opportunity to learn and grow through the feedback I was given.

Reframe: This experience has taught me that revisions are an essential part of the writing process, and feedback is a valuable tool for improvement. Moving forward, I will continue to approach feedback with an open mind, understanding that it is an opportunity to be better rather than viewing it as criticism. I will apply these organizational skills I’ve developed to future projects and ensure that my work is well=structured from the get-go and as an aspiring data analyst, I will continually seek and embrace feedback in order to learn and grow professionally.  

Reflection on Searching (Study Desk Workshop Allocation)

Retell: the workshop on searching was an informative experience that provided a structural approach to the process of searching. It highlighted that searching is not just a random activity but a systematic process and that before conducting search, we should critically examine our topic, identify relevant keywords and consider the use of alternate terms and synonyms when searching. The use of Boolean operators (AND, OR, NOT) was underlined as a powerful tool to get more refined and relevant results from our search. A template for a search strategy was shared and we were shown how refining our searches can make for better relevance. Finally, we were guided on the use of appropriate search engines such as databases and Google Scholar for relevant, vast and reliable results and were taught how to connect the USQ library to Google Scholar for smooth and easy access to credible resources.

Relate: This workshop took me back to my undergraduate days when I was learning how to conduct market research. Just like old times, I realized yet again, the importance of having a clear strategy and making use of the right tools to get the most out of any search. The feeling of enlightenment and empowerment I felt during this workshop were similar to those experiences. It also helped me discover that there is in fact a connection between searching for information and searching for life solutions. Both require a strategy in place, a clear goal we aspire to achieve and finally, the right tools.

Reflect: The knowledge I have gained from this workshop will be invaluable in my journey as a data science student and future data analyst. I believe that Boolean operators can help me find specific datasets or research that are related to my field and considering alternate endings and synonyms can also broaden my search and provide me with a more extensive view of the topic at hand. This workshop has also shown me the importance of refining searches and how it can help save time and effort in the long run.

Reframe: in the future, I plan to apply these strategies to both my academic life as a student and in my professional life as a data analyst. if I am to undertake any research, I will make use of these strategies to gather background information and find relevant supporting literature pieces for reference. Presently, I will be applying this knowledge to this course.

In conclusion, this workshop was an opportunity that completely enhanced my understanding of the process of conducting searches and it provided me with practical strategies that are applicable to my academic and professional life. It was a reminder that one needs to constantly upskill as effective search is a well thought out and strategic process that requires the application of the right tools and I look forward to applying this knowledge in the future. This reflection has helped me fully understand the value of this workshop and its relevance for future practice, so I am grateful for this learning experience.

Reflection on Scientific Ethics

Retell: The ethics workshop explored in great detail the complexities of research ethics focusing on the animal and human ethics for research first and then the ethical considerations in terms of privacy, honesty, fairness, transparency, honesty in the representation of data and the handling of data. Before this workshop, I was worried and overwhelmed by the many ethical considerations in the field of data science, however, as I attended this workshop and watched it progress, I felt of sense of relief and empowerment knowing that as a future data analyst, I now have the potential to uphold and respect ethical standards.  

Relate: the emphasis that the workshop placed on privacy and data protection, particularly in the field of data science reminded me of the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) compliance issues that most businesses face in recent times. It also made me think about the recent controversial cases surrounding data breaches and the misuse of personal data. The discussions on fairness and bias also resonated with me especially concerning the ongoing debates on the bias and discrimination involving the algorithm of social media platforms.

Reflect: I believe that the knowledge I have gained from this workshop will positively influence my dealings as a future data analyst in the area of business as I would be more sensitive to the potential biases present in the collection of data and model development. I will always represent every data in honesty by making sure that I am transparent in every area of the analysis I carry out and I will make it a sole aim to always respect privacy rights when handling sensitive information and data.

Reframe: In the future, I plan to incorporate all the ethical considerations discussed in the workshop that is applicable to me in my practice as a data analyst. I will always strive to make privacy concerns my priority and actively work to reduce the occurrence of biases and promote utmost transparency in my work. I will always engage with the stakeholders of the corporation I will be working with to gain understanding of the diverse points of view and assess the potential risks and benefits of data-driven technologies.

In conclusion, workshop was a valuable learning opportunity that opened my eyes to the intricates of ethics in research by highlighting ethical concerns in various fields including data science. It has given me the knowledge and tools for smooth sailing in the future as a data analyst. As I continue my study and journey in the field of data science, I am motivated to uphold all of the ethical standards and positively contribute to my field.

Reflection on ePortfolio (Student’s Choice)

Retell: the workshop began with an overview of the ePortfolio platform that would be created by the university and linked in our emails but first, we were provided guidance on how to personalize our ePortfolio by adding our images to the home page by means of replacing the current image on the template and writing a background information that shows personality. The workshop emphasized the privacy of the ePortfolio with the instructor explaining that it could only be accessed through a shared link and cannot be seen or accessed through a Google search. Next, we were shown how to create blog posts, adding tags for easy information retrieval and customizing the page to feature different menus then we were taught how to add an academic resume and were advised to make use of pdf format for the upload. The workshop also provided information on how to embed links to existing websites and social media platforms. Then, it concluded with the professor encouraging us to aim for progression over perfection in the creation of our ePortfolio and to direct our focus on the quality of the way we present ourselves and not so much about the quality of the items detailing our qualifications and experiences and he gave us a glimpse of his own website as he spoke about this.

Relate: this workshop reminded me of life after my undergraduate studies when I was creating professional resume for job applications which made me realize the importance of a professional presence that provides evidence of skills and qualifications to potential employers and collaborators.

Reflect: the knowledge that I have gained in the workshop will be extremely helpful in my journey as a data science student and a future data analyst. I know that the ability to create a professional ePortfolio can help me shine light on my skills, projects and achievements for easy identification by potential employers. Additionally, I am now well aware of the importance of personal branding and its impact on career prospects.

Reframe: in the future, I hope to apply this process of building a professional presence in my academic journey for this course and more to come and also in my professional life. When applying for a full-time job after my post graduate studies, I can use my ePortfolio to showcase my experience, skills and achievements and also employ it when networking with other professionals in my field. For now, I will continue to update it with every piece of information deemed necessary and relevant.

In conclusion, this ePortfolio workshop was an insightful experience that provided me with an understanding of the importance of personal branding and online presence, early on. I now have knowledge about the creation of a website that will provide others with a look into my interests, experiences, qualifications and skills. I am looking forward to the application of this process to my professional life and academic life. This reflection has allowed me to understand how particularly helpful this workshop is, and I am grateful for this learning opportunity.