Key Learning Tools and Strategies for Academic & Career Excellence
Evidence 1 - New features of MS Word
The new features of MS Word are:
Researcher: This feature allows me to search for and insert scholarly articles and other resources directly into my document. I can use it to find and cite references for my papers without having to leave the Word application.
Editor: The Editor feature uses artificial intelligence to check my writing for grammar and style errors, and can even suggest improvements to my phrasing (Munn et al. 2019). This can be a great tool to help improve the clarity and effectiveness of my writing.
Dictate: The Dictate feature allows me to use my voice to dictate text into my document, which can be especially helpful if I have difficulty typing or if I want to brainstorm ideas quickly.
OneDrive Integration: Microsoft Word now integrates with OneDrive, Microsoft's cloud-based storage solution. This allows me to easily save and access my documents from anywhere, on any device, and to collaborate with others in real time.
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My ability to communicate clearly with my professors, friends, and classmates enables them to comprehend my points of view. Also, I've worked for a few businesses, which has increased my awareness of business-related difficulties. I have collaborated with several different teams and have never experienced a major problem. I consider teamwork to be my greatest strength.
Even though I have excellent communication skills, I seldom offer to compromise with others in order to consider their points of view. The shortcomings may be described as a lack of negotiating and persuasion skills. My incapacity to properly plan out many aspects of my life is another issue I observe. My people management and leadership skills are poor as the majority of my team members, friends, and family don't think I can lead well. It is one of my shortcomings.
Opportunities
Threats
I'm eager to enhance my ability to make decisions and solve problems in order to become a more effective leader in the future. Making intelligent decisions might help me become a better student and have many advantages for both my institution and me. By comprehending the significance of decisions and how to enhance my decision-making process, I can raise my effectiveness and enjoyment at university.
The need for self-motivation is always expanding as a result of the fierce competition in today's employment market. I can be perceived as a barrier to my professional development since I don't always have the motivation to work hard. Self-motivation is important since it allows me to live freely, which is one of life's fundamental reasons for its importance, achieve the goals and targets I set based on my skills, and help me overcome the deficiencies that are holding me back.
Evidence 3 - Personal development plan
My weakness
Actions to improve my weakness
Support and resources I need
Timeframe
Estimated date and time
Appearance
It is vital for the growth of ideas in the listener's brain when speaking and leading.
Increase my confidence and understanding of a certain subject.
20 days
1 April to 20 April
Decision-making skill
In order to strengthen my decision-making abilities, I will enlist the assistance of my friends and family.
Different online and offline classes to improve the goal
1 month
15 March to 15 April
Management abilities
For managing teams and other business workers, these skills are crucial.
Acquire self-assurance and a thorough knowledge of a relevant subject
10 days
15 April to 25 April
Evidence 4 - Harvard Referencing
In order to reference their information sources, various university students usually adopt the Harvard referencing style. The referencing style has two main types of citations: in-text citations and reference lists. To establish the credibility of the researcher or researchers, students must mention sources both in the reference list and within the text (Azizah, Maryanti, and Nandiyanto, 2021). I believe the Harvard reference style to be very significant since it is crucial for reducing plagiarism rates and since any accusation of plagiarism is a serious and accurate allegation against a student. In comparison to other referencing styles, Harvard referencing is one of the best and most applicable. Using the Harvard reference method, I may give the writers the appropriate credibility.
There are several internet tools for job searching in the contemporary era of digitalization. The capacity to help job seekers find their perfect position or career path is provided by a number of different job-search websites. A job-search website allows anyone to input their information and look for the jobs they want. I've discovered that although some websites for job seeking are free, some are not. LinkedIn is a website that provides several types of job advertising. Our smartphone device and website may have hundreds of job postings from organizations we work for internationally (Linkedin.com, 2022). There are three requirements: a subscription, a curriculum vitae, and a job application for full- or part-time employment. Their website for career and professional growth also offers consultancy advice. Several online job search resources might be useful in the present era of digitalization. It is, in my opinion, one of the simplest and most efficient ways to look for a job, and it doesn't demand a lot of additional resources. I discovered that the procedure consistently produces outcomes in a timely manner.
Figure 2: Linkedin Feed
Evidence 6 - Youtube video link
To be ready for future employment options, I believe YouTube research is crucial. YouTube is a great resource for picking up new knowledge and abilities (Meseguer et al. 2019). I can probably find a lot of tutorials and how-to videos on YouTube that can help me advance my knowledge and talents, whether they are related to coding, graphic design, public speaking, or any other ability. With the help of YouTube, I am able to think up practical and efficient methods for creating a variety of things. YouTube videos can also teach me how to create things that are efficient and beneficial. In addition, there are several motivational films that might alter my perspective and level of motivation.
Evidence 7 - How to prepare for the future job market
90% of respondents to a recent Quartz survey said that within the next five years, technology will eliminate up to 50% of all jobs. It's also realistic to suppose that a lot of jobs are done by people. Robots are used to perform other tasks, such as time-consuming and repetitive ones. Today's workers may focus more on social contact, cooperation, progress, and innovation since they have easier access to information, research resources, and networking possibilities. Techniques encourage more highly skilled individuals, which leads to an increase in work, expertise, and decentralization (Rautakorpi, 2021). I am aware that without adequate planning and training, even bright people cannot be recruited for the tasks and obligations of their intended jobs. The most crucial element of success in the future job market is proper preparation. To get a job in the future market, it is essential to determine the threats, be open to change, and sharpen your skills.
Dridcoll's model of reflection might be pictured as a strategic framework for reflection and creating a methodical procedure for presenting and assessing various components. This reflection model is crucial for evaluating people's perspectives and experiences since it demonstrates the various mindsets and features of different people (Adeani, Febriani, and Syafryadin, 2020). The evaluation process is crucial for identifying current strengths and deficiencies. Dridcoll’s model of reflection can be helpful for me in preparing for university success. By using Dridcoll’s model of reflection, I can gain a deeper understanding of my academic experiences and identify strategies for success in university. This model can help me to become more self-aware, reflective, and proactive in my academic pursuits.
Figure 3: Dridcoll’s Model of Reflection
Evidence 9 - Kolb’s questionnaire
One of the most effective and efficient ways to determine the right learning type is to use Kolb's questionnaire (Taheri et al. 2021). The widely used David Kolb learning style questionnaire can help me determine my preferred learning styles and get ready for success in my academic settings. Learning about the proper learning style is crucial for understanding the required elements.
Figure 4 : Kolb’s questionnaire
Evidence 10 - Collaboratively create a PowerPoint presentation
Preparing for university success requires planning, organization, and dedication. An efficient and effective method of expressing a concept is the PowerPoint presentation. First and foremost, it's crucial to include backdrop design in the PowerPoint slides while also adding various details regarding the planned contents. Speaker notes must then be included so that readers can receive more comprehensive and useful information. The readers must find the slides appealing. Consequently, it is essential to employ captivating images, graphics, and more. The entire piece must be correctly cited in order for the writers to receive complete credibility. Lastly, a thank you slide is required to wrap up this presentation. By graphically expressing different concepts and events via PowerPoint presentations, I may dramatically affect the thoughts and mindsets of other individuals. In order to further boost marketing and other operations, I may also use the presentation.
Reflective Summary
I carefully considered each artifact I selected, and they will all aid in my efficient preparation for my upcoming duties and work.
Evidence 1: The new features of Microsoft Word are covered in the material I have provided. I provide details regarding the new features' potential benefits for academic performance in universities.
Evidence 2: To assess my opportunities, threats, strengths, and weaknesses, I've made the decision to perform a SWOT analysis. By performing a personal SWOT analysis, I will be able to accurately characterize my strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats. I can more effectively prepare for the work I'll be performing in the future if I am aware of my advantages and disadvantages.
Evidence 3: Making a personal development plan has been very beneficial for building specific professional and personal circumstances for potential work roles and employability requirements. I am able to create precise goals and targets for my own personal growth.
Evidence 4: As a university student, it is important for me to be knowledgeable about the various reference and texting formats. The Harvard referencing style is one of the most popular and successful citation styles, which is why I have included it in the assignment.
Evidence 5: I've provided a job-hunting resource. While looking for new employment and responsibilities, people utilize various procedures. It is simple to point out that job search websites are one of the best and most reliable resources for job seekers that a variety of people may utilize.
Evidence 6: In order for readers to obtain a useful understanding, the relevance of YouTube as a useful method of studying various subjects has also been highlighted in the evidence. YouTube is full of motivational and inspirational videos that can help me stay motivated and focused on my goals. By watching these videos, I can get inspired to work harder and push myself to achieve my dreams.
Evidence 7: I have used the preparation method for getting a job in the future job market. Preparing for the job market is an important aspect of preparing for success in university. Universities often offer workshops, seminars, and other professional development opportunities that can help me gain new skills and stay up-to-date on industry trends.
Evidence 8: I have used Driscoll's model of reflection in the evidence. I can pinpoint my areas for growth and create a strategy for succeeding in college by using Dridcoll's model of reflection. I can use this approach to improve my talents and boost my chances of success in school projects, extracurricular activities, and other situations.
Evidence 9: I have used Kolb's questionnaire in the evidence. By using Kolb's questionnaire, I can identify my preferred learning style, develop strategies for learning more effectively, and increase my chances of success in university. Using Kolb's questionnaire can also help me to understand and appreciate the different learning styles of my classmates and professors.
Evidence 10: I have provided several details on the creation of PowerPoint presentations. The PowerPoint presentation uses clinical information to effectively communicate certain facts or statistics. PowerPoint presentations are an effective way to organize information and present it in a clear and concise manner.
Conclusion
Basically, a successful university and career life involves technology, self-reflection, learning, and knowledge about the job market. Indeed, each evidence given contributes to personal and academic growth through the discussed elements.
New features added in Microsoft Word will enhance one's efficiency with research, writing, and collaborating on academic papers, hence easing the work at hand. A personal SWOT analysis is conducted to understand strengths and weaknesses that could be put into place by developing a focused personal development plan. Understanding how to use Harvard referencing allows integrity and credibility.
Moreover, the facilities provided by LinkedIn and other job portals make finding a job very easy. YouTube is helpful in learning and building better skills and a career with various tutorials and motivational videos. One has to be future-oriented in the job market, for which changes are continuously brought about by advancements in technology.
Reflective models, such as Dridcoll's model of reflection and Kolb's questionnaire, are helpful in self-assessment and learning style identification that will help in improving academic performance. Lastly, learning to collaboratively create PowerPoint presentations enhances communication skills and professionalism, important for university success and career advancement.
The culmination of these aspects within my studies and profession will definitely reinforce the acquisition of skills, enhance employability, and be better prepared to address future challenges. This holistic approach makes continuous learning and personal growth possible, along with career success, in the ever-changing digital era.
References
Adeani, I.S., Febriani, R.B. and Syafryadin, S., 2020. USING GIBBS' REFLECTIVE CYCLE IN MAKING REFLECTIONS OF LITERARY ANALYSIS. Indonesian EFL Journal, 6(2), pp.139-148.
Azizah, N.N., Maryanti, R. and Nandiyanto, A.B.D., 2021. How to search and manage references with a specific referencing style using Google Scholar: From step-by-step processing for users to the practical examples in referencing education. Indonesian Journal of Multidisciplinary Research, 1(2), pp.267-294.
Linkedin.com, 2022 Linkedin Available at. https://www.linkedin.com/feed/ (accessed on 10 March 2023)
Meseguer-Martinez, A., Ros-Galvez, A., Rosa-Garcia, A. and Catalan-Alarcon, J.A., 2019. Online video impact of world-class universities. Electronic Markets, 29, pp.519-532.
Munn, Z., Aromataris, E., Tufanaru, C., Stern, C., Porritt, K., Farrow, J., Lockwood, C., Stephenson, M., Moola, S., Lizarondo, L. and McArthur, A., 2019. The development of software to support multiple systematic review types: the Joanna Briggs Institute System for the Unified Management, Assessment, and Review of Information (JBI SUMARI). JBI Evidence Implementation, 17(1), pp.36-43.
Rautakorpi, K., 2021. Automation, job market, and future skills: How will automation affect the future job market and what are key skills in the future?
Taheri, M., Falahchai, M., Javanak, M., Hemmati, Y.B., and Bozorgi, M.D., 2021. Analyzing the relationship between learning styles (Kolb and VARK) and creativity with the academic achievement of dental students. Journal of education and health promotion, 10.
