# Reflection

Career Development is as important as any technical module on this course. I found the concept of just the acknowledgement of different soft skills significant; I had never thought of this effect before, even happening subconsciously. Awareness of a fact is the first step to changing or implementing.

This lecture highlighted a weakness in my note taking, as I tend to not note down points I misunderstood, instead just making a mental note to investigate later and rarely adding retroactive points. Noting this is both an example of understanding I should change this, and how I should continue in the future.

In addition, I found the concept of writing reflections helpful for not just this module, and not even just at university. I rarely reflect on past learning generally; this will help growth in most aspects of life continuing to reflect.

# About

Description of module and objectives. Practical aspects and assessments explained. Importance of soft skills in employability and different types of soft skills. Refresher on note taking and reflective writing.

Career Development just as important as technical modules, soft skills are what get you hired and provide communication skills in the workplace.

# Assessments

## T1

### Early Self Assessment Report (30%)

Understanding and development of your soft skills so far (diary)

## T2

### Reflective Weekly Journal (50%)

Weekly reflective entries on each lecture in T1 and T2

### Final Self Assessment Report (20%)

Reflection of your existing and soft skills

These Assessments start as of this lecture.

# Examples of Soft Skills

- Communication
- Teamwork, but also Independence
- Time Management
- Leadership
	- Note: some people aren't built for leadership, and have to force it to make it.
	- Very important to take charge, building confidence
- Critical Thinking
- Adaptability
- Digital Literacy

Just awareness of the skills existence is beneficial. Never thought of it this way, awareness is the first step to implementation.

Review and correct notes, reflect. Add extra notes, look up sources of misunderstood information.

# Reflective Writing

A response to new experiences or information, and a valuable opportunity to growth. Not a purely descriptive method, but rather retroactive form of writing, using critical thinking to understand what has been learned or gained from an experience.

Starting with a short description, write about goals and content. Reflect on what was interesting, useful, or relevant; why was this the case? Honest reflective writing often involves revealing concerns and weaknesses, along with strengths and successes. This shows understanding.
