The first step I took when starting research was creating a survey. I designed the survey so that it only takes a few minutes to complete, and I have distributed the link to more than a dozen individuals. Unfortunately, I have only received four responses so far, but the data is still interesting since nearly all responses lean in the same direction.
In order to organize my report, I first had to determine what exactly the main goal of it would be. The main goal is to determine how the operational structure of the Programme Resource Centre (PRC) can be improved to maximize efficiency. Namely, I would focus primarily on the feasibility of maintaining an online ordering system at the PRC. However, I also decided to briefly examine several other ideas, such as relocating the PRC entirely or hiring additional staff. The reason I looked at these areas as well was because these options have been considered in the past by residence management.
Before starting to write the report, I realized it would be important to provide some background information about the history of the PRC and how it typically operates. Although I am currently working in the PRC, operations have significantly changed due to the pandemic. During my interviews and research, I sought out to determine how the PRC has typically operated for the past few years. Researching the past can help provide better context for any proposed changes.
The peer review process was very insightful. Reading through Charles’ draft, I noticed that there were some strengths and weaknesses. One of the strengths in his report was the way in which survey data was clearly presented (as both a table and chart) and well integrated into the report. As a reader, I appreciated how the data was presented in a transparent and easy-to-understand format. As I work to finalize my report, the data section is one aspect I will definitely strive to improve. One of the weaknesses in Charles’ draft was the relative lack of proposed solutions. This is very problematic, since the whole purpose of the report is to both identify a problem and propose solutions. This weakness was present in my draft as well. As such, in the coming days I will work to better research and refine this section in my own report.
Link to my draft (right click to “Save As”): https://blogs.ubc.ca/engl301-98a-2021sa/files/2021/07/301-Alirod-Ameri-Formal-Report-Draft.docx