This term, I’ve had a few opportunities to collaborate with my peers and engage in problem-solving activities. Therefore, this reflection focuses on my skills in collaboration and problem solving. During our chemistry unit, there have been multiple occasions where we have been assigned to group projects or labs. One group assignment was our balancing equations lab. In this lab, we were asked to mix specific chemicals together, record the reactions and then balance the chemical equation. During this activity, I contributed by helping measure and mix the chemicals carefully and by writing down our observations. I also communicated with my partner to make sure we were all on the same page when identifying the products of each reaction. I made sure to listen to my partner’s opinions as well and discuss before working on an experiment together.
Overall, I think that I am doing a good job of communicating and collaborating with others. However, I believe I do have a few things to work on. During a game we had during class, we were assigned to pairs and were asked to face another group and answer questions in hopes of earning bonus points. During that game, I found that I was getting a few answers wrong and I felt a little discouraged and hesitant to continue answering. I tried my best to continue answering but I wasn’t participating as much as I was before. Looking back, I realized that mistakes are common, and that I should look at them as a learning opportunity. In the future, I want to be more confident in sharing my ideas, even if I’m unsure. I think staying involved and trying my best will help me get better at problem solving and being a stronger teammate.
One goal I have for the rest of the semester is to participate more in class and group activities involving three or more people. By the end of the month, I want to actively contribute at least once in every group activity, whether it’s sharing an idea, answering a question, or asking for clarification. I’ll start by setting small targets, like speaking up at least once during each class, and gradually build my confidence in larger group discussions.
In conclusion, this term has given me some good chances to work with others and get better at solving problems together. I think I’ve made progress, but I still have a lot of room to grow, especially when it comes to speaking up more in bigger groups. I’m going to keep pushing myself to stay involved, learn from mistakes, and focus on my goals. I’m excited to keep improving and be more active in class and group activities for the rest of the semester.