Today was the final Pilot Workshop of the LEAD module in Cathal Brugha. The day began with an ice breaker session with Brian Gormley. This exercise observed whether people could multi-task and it was an opportunity for last minute questions about the final LEAD report due on the following Friday the 20th of June.
Bob talked us through how students can evidence their events or volunteering activities in the form of a Blog. Those students who engaged and reflected on their activities in their blog can now draw their skills, events and evidence of those experiences from the blog and this makes the completion of the report less daunting. The majority of students found blogging did not work for them. Word press and Twitter were suggested because asking questions found that some people reflect differently on their experiences.
Reflecting on personal achievements in writting was explained and discussed by taking an event and linking it to a chosen skill. Communicationa and Problem Solving were discussed with the thread being Social media, team work and promotion. The report must focus on I in the first person and an explanation about other peoples involvement maybe how they felt during the task. I am learning what I can do differently next time. It is fundamental to the success of the planning society to solve issues that arise and to find out what does or does not work for the society. I think it is essential to have the time to think back on past events and to move on and to learn from those experiences. This will provide the student with knowledge which can be adapted to their future Careers.
Mind maps were created and provided a clearer insight into the reflective process. Reflection is evidenced in the personal development plan or journey I have begun and continue to pursue because of the LEAD module. I learnt I can handle stressful situations, I am a quick thinker and I have a positive attitude to challenges. Feedback on this pilot module was gathered because DIT are applying for this module to be accredited for this coming September.
The Mentors were helpful and greatly assisted the students answering many questions and giving us all positive guidance to complete our 2,000 word report and evidence based assignment for the LEAD module. This is due on the 20th of June and the written element is more important than the evidence. It is an academic exercise which requires considerable reading and study which is demonstrated in the draft schedule for 2012. I wish the Mentors every success in the future, best of luck to all the participating students and those upcoming students who succeed in taking this worthwhile LEAD module. There are numerous possibilities whether you have developed a new career path, decided to apply for a Masters, changed degree courses or can apply for a job. The list is endless....
'Reflection on yourself, you have just tilted the lid'.
