Introduction
Looking back at my previous posts, I must say I have significantly improved. I have already entered the course with pre-existing knowledge about business writing and communications. However, I did not focus well enough on how to write with a YOU attitude. I overused imperatives. I also could have been more creative with my reflection posts as well. The previous reflections were excellently written, but adding visuals may have added more flair to the posts. Also, I caught writing errors in the first reflection post that I overlooked at the beginning. This means I have been improving thanks to peer review experience and looking over my own work frequently. Overall, it was a great experience writing the reflections, as they demonstrated my learning and growth.
In this post, I will write two self-assessment reflections. The first self-assessment will elaborate on the process of creating the Web Folio. The other self-assessment will focus on the completed final design of the Web Folio. Additionally, I will also hyperlink to my revised and improved Unit Reflections.
Self-Assessment #1: How was the Web Folio creation process?
For this Web Folio, I used my personal UBC blog for the course and reworked it. I made some pages private and deleted some others. I also changed the template, colours and header image as well. For the header, I used my own photography of the White Rock Crescent Beach skyline at sunset. This reflects my passion for nature and creativity. It also adds personal flair and an aesthetic layout for readers. Personally, rearranging everything was not difficult because I am already familiar with WordPress and the UBC Blogs platform. Additionally, I added extra visuals and some hyperlinks on my posts for more access to information and seeing a bit of creativity.
How has my writing changed throughout ENGL 301? What are my current strengths and weaknesses?
Before I took this course, my writing was messy and unclear. I was guilty of writing endless run-ons, wordy clauses and redundancy. As I began learning how to write towards an audience, my writing began improving bit by bit. My writing grew from the ground upwards by watering it with practice and regular self-assessment like a plant. Learning how to do peer-reviewing allowed me to take on an objective role. I write shorter sentences when I can. I can pinpoint other people’s mistakes and then do it for myself. I improved my punctuation and word choices. I write essential information and also know how to organize it efficiently. Overall, I polished my writing immensely. I feel and see a visible difference in my writing and self-presentation. I find myself trying to write more coherent, professional comments on social media. I focus on syntax and composition more than before.
The main weakness I believe I still possess is forgetting little details that matter significantly towards specific audiences. For example, I had problems finding the appropriate audience for my proposal. I also would forget to add in titles when we should be using them. This was a standard error I made, according to Dr. Erika Paterson. Also, I have to feel more confident in adding more information and details. I have to juggle adding more elements and not being wordy, which is one area of concern.
Takeaways
The creation of the Web Folio demonstrates my abilities to self-assess, edit efficiently, and organize information coherently. It also reflects my eye for creativity and detail. This means I can easily demonstrate my creativity when looking for a new job or entering a new program.
Self-Assessment #2: The Final Design of the Web Folio
After finishing the Web Folio, I am surprised to see how developed and strong my writing has become. It is more concise, detailed and demonstrates a strong YOU attitude. There were some assignments that I did not have to revise much at all. This is a good sign for me. I also really like the layout and colours of the folio. I feel that I could show this folio to other professionals and peers without embarrassment. I revised mostly what was completed earlier in the course.
Takeaways
This shows that my writing improved slowly from the beginning to the end of ENGL 301. After completing ENGL 301 and this Web Folio, I could have a competitive edge in applying for future jobs where excellent communication skills are required. I can also demonstrate that I have the necessary competency to do the coursework and expectations in graduate school.