"I'd say that hard work and natural talent is 80:20."
That was said in response to my question about talent. And I told him 80:20 I'd give it to him. I wanted to say talent is purely derived from hard work but I decided that's a little too extreme a statement to make.
Which then struck me: What is learning? When I was reading Plato's dialogues, there was this interesting philosophy that knowledge is eternal and ever-present. Whatever we think we have 'learnt', we have already knew them from the longest of time. It was said that the soul is eternal and knowledge is already known, all that is to be done is to refresh the memory. I put 'learn' in inverted commas because I think it's an abstract notion.
Think about how one 'learns' something. A book can tell you the theory. Your teacher could teach you the steps. Yet the "easiest" way of learning is when you already "knew" the answer. Imagine the times, say, when you solve a mathematical problem. You have no clue what the book or the teacher is saying. Nevertheless you went to try it yourself via brute force. Incidentally you arrived at the answer the exact same way as your book's method. Delighted, you mentally took note that you got this problem right and you have now "learnt" how to solve the problem. Yet, where did the "learning" occur? The book did not help. Your teacher could enlighten you. The answer was already in your head, somehow. Is this true learning? One cannot discount that this is still knowledge acquired, if that is how learning is going to be defined. Is this what people call natural talent? If a person could, via brute force, somehow "know" how to do it without actually understanding anything from any external source time and again, one could say such people are gifted because naturally they can learn without much guidance.
Consider another type of learning. I call this grinding. Similar to the above, you have no idea what is going on. You tried to do it via brute force. Unfortunately, you aren't as lucky as the group of people described earlier. They knew the answer; you don't. Instead of giving up, they tried again and again, trying to "learn" what was being taught to them. They could emulate it perfectly after putting in hours after hours of repetitive practise no less. Or they could slowly discover the answer after they prod it from all sorts of different angles. The start is the same. The end point is identical but the process is very different. Such people are what I call a genius of hard work. Personally, I think this is the true learning. Learning should be defined by the process. The second group, albeit slower, they actually "learn" more as they go on a journey of discovering the answer in comparison to the first group who just got it.
Jordan once said the best players take what the defence gives them. One might not get it instantly but the process of learning is the truly priceless one. There is a limit to how much one could get. If you believe Plato's philosophy, then there is no limit to how much knowledge you could get by refreshing your memory when you keep trying and trying.
Tuesday, May 4, 2010
Friday, April 16, 2010
So is this rocket science?
As this module draws to a close, I think I have finally found an answer. Let me bring you all along on a rollercoaster trip through the thoughts that I had throughout the whole semester.
1. I could explain that with math
At the start of the module, I was very disturbed. As I was reading through the different models of communication, a constant thought went through my mind. Humans love to complicate matters. Things got worse when the models went from linear, to quadratic, to infinite dimensions. I thought I was going to solve differential equations.
Suddenly I had a very crazy thought. I was thinking about how to find a mathematical equation that explains how people interact. It seemed possible because if all else fails I can fall back on my conservation laws. I thought I was going mad. I feared becoming like the lead in "A Beautiful Mind".
2. Merely guidelines
Fortunately, things took a turn for the better. When Brad said the rules were all merely guidlines, I heaved a huge sigh of relief. Suddenly all thoughts of that all encompassing equation disappeared and I am glad I retained my sanity. All but 7 rules were left in my head; the 7Cs. Of course, 7Cs beat having equations of infinite power...
3.It just sounds better
As the number of skills builder we were exposed to increase, I could not help but notice how intuitively everything was. Too intuitive in fact. Everytime I saw a certain tip, I would often go, "Hey I knew that!" Yet someone was always able to take take the most intuitive and most simple of things, put it into words, make it sound impressive and suddenly it seemed like no one had thought of such intuitive behaviors before. Human capacity never fails to impress me. However, suddenly something simple became so complex again. I was once again perplexed.
4. Purely subjective
This is right, that is wrong and that could be improved further. Assignment after assignments, I got increasingly dejected. It seemed like there was not a way to improve myself contrary to what was being advocated by websites. As days go by, it seemed like my grades were going to be purely based on talent. Maybe it IS rocket science because I simply did not get it.
5. A Grand Finale
Then came the project. As my team and I revised drafts after drafts and got feedback after feedback from Brad, suddenly things looked a little brighter. The 7Cs came into use and the feedback slowly made our proposal look better. The proposal was finally a polished end product. I was pleased.
Soon there was nothing much left in the way but the presentation. This was when it all came together. The 7Cs made sense. The different guidelines from the presentation websites and from Brad's feedback helped a lot as well. Truly, my teammates really showed what guidelines mean; they are merely guidelines. While we were influenced by the 'new' style, they maintained their own individuality and it all came together nicely in the end. And the bad habits, something I thought would cause my downfall, could actually be controlled. I was elated by the discoveries from just one course.
Communication is not rocket science. It might be complicated at times and made to sound more perplexed than it actually is by Man but I would say it is more akin to an art. The things one encounters in communication might be counter-intuitive but it just needs that extra bit of effort. It needs that extra effort to constantly be aware and to constantly work hard and try to change the counter-intuitive things to become second nature. I am glad it is not rocket science as I embark on my continual path to perfecting this art....
1. I could explain that with math
At the start of the module, I was very disturbed. As I was reading through the different models of communication, a constant thought went through my mind. Humans love to complicate matters. Things got worse when the models went from linear, to quadratic, to infinite dimensions. I thought I was going to solve differential equations.
Suddenly I had a very crazy thought. I was thinking about how to find a mathematical equation that explains how people interact. It seemed possible because if all else fails I can fall back on my conservation laws. I thought I was going mad. I feared becoming like the lead in "A Beautiful Mind".
2. Merely guidelines
Fortunately, things took a turn for the better. When Brad said the rules were all merely guidlines, I heaved a huge sigh of relief. Suddenly all thoughts of that all encompassing equation disappeared and I am glad I retained my sanity. All but 7 rules were left in my head; the 7Cs. Of course, 7Cs beat having equations of infinite power...
3.It just sounds better
As the number of skills builder we were exposed to increase, I could not help but notice how intuitively everything was. Too intuitive in fact. Everytime I saw a certain tip, I would often go, "Hey I knew that!" Yet someone was always able to take take the most intuitive and most simple of things, put it into words, make it sound impressive and suddenly it seemed like no one had thought of such intuitive behaviors before. Human capacity never fails to impress me. However, suddenly something simple became so complex again. I was once again perplexed.
4. Purely subjective
This is right, that is wrong and that could be improved further. Assignment after assignments, I got increasingly dejected. It seemed like there was not a way to improve myself contrary to what was being advocated by websites. As days go by, it seemed like my grades were going to be purely based on talent. Maybe it IS rocket science because I simply did not get it.
5. A Grand Finale
Then came the project. As my team and I revised drafts after drafts and got feedback after feedback from Brad, suddenly things looked a little brighter. The 7Cs came into use and the feedback slowly made our proposal look better. The proposal was finally a polished end product. I was pleased.
Soon there was nothing much left in the way but the presentation. This was when it all came together. The 7Cs made sense. The different guidelines from the presentation websites and from Brad's feedback helped a lot as well. Truly, my teammates really showed what guidelines mean; they are merely guidelines. While we were influenced by the 'new' style, they maintained their own individuality and it all came together nicely in the end. And the bad habits, something I thought would cause my downfall, could actually be controlled. I was elated by the discoveries from just one course.
Communication is not rocket science. It might be complicated at times and made to sound more perplexed than it actually is by Man but I would say it is more akin to an art. The things one encounters in communication might be counter-intuitive but it just needs that extra bit of effort. It needs that extra effort to constantly be aware and to constantly work hard and try to change the counter-intuitive things to become second nature. I am glad it is not rocket science as I embark on my continual path to perfecting this art....
Monday, April 12, 2010
The second closest thing to death
It has to be public speaking. Just as Brad has said before, many people think that public speaking is the second closest thing to death. I must say I went into the presentation feeling both nervous and confident. On the one hand I was confident that my team and I had done our preparation and done all that we could. On the other hand, I was extremely nervous. I have a couple of reasons for panicking.
1. The first time
It was not the first time I presented in front of people. In the past I have never paid much attention to presentations or speaking in front of a group of people. I always thought that if you can speak you can speak, there is nothing much to learn. Apparently not. Probably something I have learnt from this course it that public speaking CAN be improved. There are so many things to prepare and so many things a speaker should try to take note of it is almost impossible to be fully prepared. One can only try to make it second nature by having more practice. It was mainly because I found out so much that I can actually improve on in my presentation that made me such a nervous wreck.
2. You can't see yourself but people can see you
This is closely linked with the first point. Just like singing, many people think they sing splendid. I always thought I sing splendid until I recorded myself. It was quite terrible I must admit. Similarly, I always thought I was fine when I spoke until it was pointed out to me about certain habits that I have when I am presenting. It really came as a surprise. Ever since I have been trying hard to keep those feedback in mind and try to improve myself. Of course with even more to add to the to-do list during presentations, I cannot help but get nervous.
3. Old habits die hard
This is probably the main reason for my anxiety. Certain habits such as turning to look at the powerpoint slides, shifting around, slouching or playing with my fingers all these bad habits are quite natural. To keep them in check, I had to constantly remind myself and coupling that with the presentation, I can feel myself shaking a little especially when I force myself to not turn to the slides for that brief few seconds of escape.
I must say I did enjoy myself even though it was a very nervous 30mins or so but I felt very happy that I learnt something from the course and also had a chance to put the things I have learnt into practice. Additionally I want to thank everyone for their attention. Things really became much better when I see everyone listening and giving positive non-verbal cues. Thank you everyone.
Okay I think it is getting a little bit long so I will end here. See you all for the last lesson this thursday.
1. The first time
It was not the first time I presented in front of people. In the past I have never paid much attention to presentations or speaking in front of a group of people. I always thought that if you can speak you can speak, there is nothing much to learn. Apparently not. Probably something I have learnt from this course it that public speaking CAN be improved. There are so many things to prepare and so many things a speaker should try to take note of it is almost impossible to be fully prepared. One can only try to make it second nature by having more practice. It was mainly because I found out so much that I can actually improve on in my presentation that made me such a nervous wreck.
2. You can't see yourself but people can see you
This is closely linked with the first point. Just like singing, many people think they sing splendid. I always thought I sing splendid until I recorded myself. It was quite terrible I must admit. Similarly, I always thought I was fine when I spoke until it was pointed out to me about certain habits that I have when I am presenting. It really came as a surprise. Ever since I have been trying hard to keep those feedback in mind and try to improve myself. Of course with even more to add to the to-do list during presentations, I cannot help but get nervous.
3. Old habits die hard
This is probably the main reason for my anxiety. Certain habits such as turning to look at the powerpoint slides, shifting around, slouching or playing with my fingers all these bad habits are quite natural. To keep them in check, I had to constantly remind myself and coupling that with the presentation, I can feel myself shaking a little especially when I force myself to not turn to the slides for that brief few seconds of escape.
I must say I did enjoy myself even though it was a very nervous 30mins or so but I felt very happy that I learnt something from the course and also had a chance to put the things I have learnt into practice. Additionally I want to thank everyone for their attention. Things really became much better when I see everyone listening and giving positive non-verbal cues. Thank you everyone.
Okay I think it is getting a little bit long so I will end here. See you all for the last lesson this thursday.
Sunday, March 21, 2010
Proposal draft 1 Background
1.0 EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
This proposal focuses on a study of which oral communication skills that are most required in the radio broadcasting industry in Singapore. The radio broadcasting industry is the workplace chosen because it is an industry with demanding hiring criteria. It is also an industry where the effectiveness of communication will have a great influence on the public. Since the industry is versatile with many areas of specialisation, we will be narrowing down the target group to radio hosts, whose effective use and display of communication skills are vital.
Our methodology involved using secondary sources for background knowledge on the current situation of radio broadcasting in Singapore. This provided us insights into the validity, feasibility and benefits of our research. Another key component of our research would be the use of primary sources like surveys and interviews to get more realistic and on-scene information about our target workplace. Our target group for interviews are individuals in the academia such as university professors and also radio hosts who worked or are still working at radio stations. The target groups for our survey will be employees in the radio broadcasting industry especially radio hosts and also undergraduates who had worked as part-time radio hosts.
An analysis and comprehensive interpretation of these primary sources will give us the direction for any proposed changes to the curriculum in order to enhance education in National University of Singapore (NUS).
2.0 BACKGROUND INFORMATION
The NUS Excellence Unit (NUSEU) aims to encourage student participation in the ongoing efforts for NUS to become one of the leading universities in the world. The current project requires a group to perform a needs analysis of a workplace and suggest relevant changes from our findings to the NUS curriculum. Quoting from Grünhage-Monetti, the author of the book, "Odysseus: Second Language at the Workplace", a needs analysis is “primarily not on the needs and deficits of individuals but on the communicative requirements of a particular ‘community of practice’.”
Media plays a pivotal role of social and culture influence besides providing information to the public. It is central, if not primary, in our lives (Stack, et al., 2006). Currently English is the predominant language used in television and radio broadcasting in Singapore. Television Corporation of Singapore (TCS) and Radio Corporation of Singapore (RCS) used to send their broadcasters to expatriate language specialists in order to portray ‘good’ spoken English. However, they seemed to have changed and local accents mixed with educated Singapore English could be heard nowadays (Venetta, 1996/1997). The local radio stations are largely controlled by Mediacorp. Referring to the website information from Mediacorp, the company oversees 14 radio channels in Singapore. There are also two radio channels operating under Singapore Armed Forces Recreational Association (SAFRA). This reflects on the major influence radio stations still have in the country. It is important that the graduates in the industry are fully skilled and trained to perform the task of communicating effectively as radio hosts. It is the dutiful mission of education to equip industry with knowledgeable employees.
With digital revolution, many new alternative forms of radio such as podcasts and satellite radio appear to challenge the traditional form of radio. The winning factors of these new forms of radio are convenience to listeners and freedom to radio broadcasting. Instead of limiting to a fixed radio schedule, these new forms of radio offer the convenience of tuning in to them at one’s own preferred time. In terms of freedom, new media such as podcasts require no license, no frequencies and no companies (Green, et al., 2005). Anyone could create their own “radio show”. The above stated examples present a real challenge that radio companies face nowadays. Even big players in the radio industry are affected by these new challengers, one example - “Viacom announced a 10.9 billion write-down in assets at its Infinity Broadcasting division, a clear signal that earnings prospects were dimming” (Green et al., 2005). However, as articulated by Laraine Mancini, an analyst at Merrill Lynch & Co, radio is “challenged but not dead” (Green et al., 2005). It could be testing times for the radio industry but it could also be a time of change. In order to keep up with times, the radio stations might be forced to utilise the digital technologies such as satellite radio, internet radio and podcasts. Therefore, the prevalence of this highlighted even more on the need to revamp the radio broadcasting industry. Needs analysis at the workplace is a good head start to identify the changes that could be employed for improvement in the industry.
The hiring criteria for radio hosts are demanding. On top of qualifications in the related field, applicants have to speak well, be knowledgeable and creative amongst others. We acknowledged the multitude of skills which are required of a radio host. However, in our research, we are focussing on oral communication needs per se. Quoting Erskine (1935), “Broadcasting is an art, and the broadcaster is either an artist or a failure”. The most essential skill in broadcasting is to get hold of the audience.
Understanding the importance of the broadcasting industry and an overview of the current situation in radio broadcasting, we researched on the relevant NUS curriculum offered by the Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences (FASS). According to the NUS website, the institution offers a degree in Communications and New Media (CNM) and double degree in Business and CNM. The course structure focuses more on journalism, writing, management and the new media. New media refers to the Internet and mobile phones in contrary to conventional media like newspapers, TV and radio. It can be seen that the modules offered in NUS are not customised to the radio broadcasting industry. This is reflected in the Centralised Online Registration System (CORS) website by the limited number of related modules like Intercultural Communication (NM2201) and Principles of Communication Management (NM2219). There are not many modules on effective verbal communication. Perhaps this is due to NUS not offering a major in broadcasting. Among the list of core modules for CNM majors are Communications, New Media and Society (NM1101E), Theories of Communications & New Media (NM2101) and Communications & New Media Research (NM2102). Other modules offered are mostly on media writing (Introduction to Media Writing, News Reporting and Editing, Writing for Communication Management) and new media (Game design, Publications Graphics and Design, Critical Approaches to New Media).
There are few general communication modules such as Professional Communication (ES2007S) and Business Communication (ES2002). However, these are not specialised into radio broadcasting even though there is an oral communication component as part of the teaching. Therefore, we foresee a lack of proper to equip students with the necessary oral skills in the radio broadcasting industry.
According to Singapore Polytechnic, there are modules like TV Studio Management, Radio Production and Broadcast Journalism for those who are interested in Radio and TV concentration. From Ngee Ann Polytechnic's website, we found interesting modules such as Speech Communication and Social Psychology & Communication. Both polytechnics offer internships. Contrary to the modules offered in the polytechnics, NUS lacks focus on oral related skills and radio broadcasting modules.
Lack of emphasis in NUS on radio broadcasting modules or courses may be attributed to the prevalence of polytechnics in Singapore offering diploma in communication to meet the demands of the industry. Besides NTU, there is no institution which offers a Bachelors Degree for communication studies. Looking at a wider context, there are overseas university which offers major in radio and TV broadcasting, or at least there are very relevant modules which students can take. One example is Northwestern University’s School of Communication which offers a major in Radio/TV/Film.
From the MOE website, we found that two of the larger NUS faculties which are the Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences (FASS) and Faculty of Science (FOS) have comparatively and significantly lower employment rates than graduates from other universities. This could suggest that NUS students from FASS seem to be less attractive to employers. Hence it is essential to make certain improvements to increase the marketability of NUS students. Further investigations on this issue should be done to implement possible changes because employment is a very important issue for current students and graduates. Employment is also a major consideration when future applicants consider applying for NUS. Additionally, the reputation of NUS as a leading university might also be at stake if we do not look into this problem.
3.0 PROBLEM STATEMENT
Despite radio broadcasting being an important and influential form of mass media, FASS in NUS does not offer specialised related modules. The CNM Department places more emphasis on new media, but what about the conventional media like radio? Moreover, the communication modules currently offered does not seem to prepare undergraduates for this radio broadcasting particular workplace. If changes were to take place, the exact needs of the industry have to be determined in order for effective improvements to take place. Therefore, we hope to identify the oral communication skills required in the industry.
This proposal focuses on a study of which oral communication skills that are most required in the radio broadcasting industry in Singapore. The radio broadcasting industry is the workplace chosen because it is an industry with demanding hiring criteria. It is also an industry where the effectiveness of communication will have a great influence on the public. Since the industry is versatile with many areas of specialisation, we will be narrowing down the target group to radio hosts, whose effective use and display of communication skills are vital.
Our methodology involved using secondary sources for background knowledge on the current situation of radio broadcasting in Singapore. This provided us insights into the validity, feasibility and benefits of our research. Another key component of our research would be the use of primary sources like surveys and interviews to get more realistic and on-scene information about our target workplace. Our target group for interviews are individuals in the academia such as university professors and also radio hosts who worked or are still working at radio stations. The target groups for our survey will be employees in the radio broadcasting industry especially radio hosts and also undergraduates who had worked as part-time radio hosts.
An analysis and comprehensive interpretation of these primary sources will give us the direction for any proposed changes to the curriculum in order to enhance education in National University of Singapore (NUS).
2.0 BACKGROUND INFORMATION
The NUS Excellence Unit (NUSEU) aims to encourage student participation in the ongoing efforts for NUS to become one of the leading universities in the world. The current project requires a group to perform a needs analysis of a workplace and suggest relevant changes from our findings to the NUS curriculum. Quoting from Grünhage-Monetti, the author of the book, "Odysseus: Second Language at the Workplace", a needs analysis is “primarily not on the needs and deficits of individuals but on the communicative requirements of a particular ‘community of practice’.”
Media plays a pivotal role of social and culture influence besides providing information to the public. It is central, if not primary, in our lives (Stack, et al., 2006). Currently English is the predominant language used in television and radio broadcasting in Singapore. Television Corporation of Singapore (TCS) and Radio Corporation of Singapore (RCS) used to send their broadcasters to expatriate language specialists in order to portray ‘good’ spoken English. However, they seemed to have changed and local accents mixed with educated Singapore English could be heard nowadays (Venetta, 1996/1997). The local radio stations are largely controlled by Mediacorp. Referring to the website information from Mediacorp, the company oversees 14 radio channels in Singapore. There are also two radio channels operating under Singapore Armed Forces Recreational Association (SAFRA). This reflects on the major influence radio stations still have in the country. It is important that the graduates in the industry are fully skilled and trained to perform the task of communicating effectively as radio hosts. It is the dutiful mission of education to equip industry with knowledgeable employees.
With digital revolution, many new alternative forms of radio such as podcasts and satellite radio appear to challenge the traditional form of radio. The winning factors of these new forms of radio are convenience to listeners and freedom to radio broadcasting. Instead of limiting to a fixed radio schedule, these new forms of radio offer the convenience of tuning in to them at one’s own preferred time. In terms of freedom, new media such as podcasts require no license, no frequencies and no companies (Green, et al., 2005). Anyone could create their own “radio show”. The above stated examples present a real challenge that radio companies face nowadays. Even big players in the radio industry are affected by these new challengers, one example - “Viacom announced a 10.9 billion write-down in assets at its Infinity Broadcasting division, a clear signal that earnings prospects were dimming” (Green et al., 2005). However, as articulated by Laraine Mancini, an analyst at Merrill Lynch & Co, radio is “challenged but not dead” (Green et al., 2005). It could be testing times for the radio industry but it could also be a time of change. In order to keep up with times, the radio stations might be forced to utilise the digital technologies such as satellite radio, internet radio and podcasts. Therefore, the prevalence of this highlighted even more on the need to revamp the radio broadcasting industry. Needs analysis at the workplace is a good head start to identify the changes that could be employed for improvement in the industry.
The hiring criteria for radio hosts are demanding. On top of qualifications in the related field, applicants have to speak well, be knowledgeable and creative amongst others. We acknowledged the multitude of skills which are required of a radio host. However, in our research, we are focussing on oral communication needs per se. Quoting Erskine (1935), “Broadcasting is an art, and the broadcaster is either an artist or a failure”. The most essential skill in broadcasting is to get hold of the audience.
Understanding the importance of the broadcasting industry and an overview of the current situation in radio broadcasting, we researched on the relevant NUS curriculum offered by the Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences (FASS). According to the NUS website, the institution offers a degree in Communications and New Media (CNM) and double degree in Business and CNM. The course structure focuses more on journalism, writing, management and the new media. New media refers to the Internet and mobile phones in contrary to conventional media like newspapers, TV and radio. It can be seen that the modules offered in NUS are not customised to the radio broadcasting industry. This is reflected in the Centralised Online Registration System (CORS) website by the limited number of related modules like Intercultural Communication (NM2201) and Principles of Communication Management (NM2219). There are not many modules on effective verbal communication. Perhaps this is due to NUS not offering a major in broadcasting. Among the list of core modules for CNM majors are Communications, New Media and Society (NM1101E), Theories of Communications & New Media (NM2101) and Communications & New Media Research (NM2102). Other modules offered are mostly on media writing (Introduction to Media Writing, News Reporting and Editing, Writing for Communication Management) and new media (Game design, Publications Graphics and Design, Critical Approaches to New Media).
There are few general communication modules such as Professional Communication (ES2007S) and Business Communication (ES2002). However, these are not specialised into radio broadcasting even though there is an oral communication component as part of the teaching. Therefore, we foresee a lack of proper to equip students with the necessary oral skills in the radio broadcasting industry.
According to Singapore Polytechnic, there are modules like TV Studio Management, Radio Production and Broadcast Journalism for those who are interested in Radio and TV concentration. From Ngee Ann Polytechnic's website, we found interesting modules such as Speech Communication and Social Psychology & Communication. Both polytechnics offer internships. Contrary to the modules offered in the polytechnics, NUS lacks focus on oral related skills and radio broadcasting modules.
Lack of emphasis in NUS on radio broadcasting modules or courses may be attributed to the prevalence of polytechnics in Singapore offering diploma in communication to meet the demands of the industry. Besides NTU, there is no institution which offers a Bachelors Degree for communication studies. Looking at a wider context, there are overseas university which offers major in radio and TV broadcasting, or at least there are very relevant modules which students can take. One example is Northwestern University’s School of Communication which offers a major in Radio/TV/Film.
From the MOE website, we found that two of the larger NUS faculties which are the Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences (FASS) and Faculty of Science (FOS) have comparatively and significantly lower employment rates than graduates from other universities. This could suggest that NUS students from FASS seem to be less attractive to employers. Hence it is essential to make certain improvements to increase the marketability of NUS students. Further investigations on this issue should be done to implement possible changes because employment is a very important issue for current students and graduates. Employment is also a major consideration when future applicants consider applying for NUS. Additionally, the reputation of NUS as a leading university might also be at stake if we do not look into this problem.
3.0 PROBLEM STATEMENT
Despite radio broadcasting being an important and influential form of mass media, FASS in NUS does not offer specialised related modules. The CNM Department places more emphasis on new media, but what about the conventional media like radio? Moreover, the communication modules currently offered does not seem to prepare undergraduates for this radio broadcasting particular workplace. If changes were to take place, the exact needs of the industry have to be determined in order for effective improvements to take place. Therefore, we hope to identify the oral communication skills required in the industry.
Friday, February 12, 2010
Intercultural Conflict
On a trip to visit my relatives in China, I came across a very interesting practice. In Singapore, it is normal that shoes are to be taken off and placed outside the house. Such behavior is logical since shoes are usually dirty from walking on outside roads and pavements. It does not make sense to dirty the floor and then sweep it after that. Most Singaporeans are still a pragmatic lot. However, I was in for a surprise over on my trip to China. I "politely" took my shoes off when I went to visit their house but I was urged to wear my shoes into the house by my relatives and was told not to stand on ceremony. In fact, wearing shoes into the house is such an important practice to them, they said that they would not step into a house if they could not wear their shoes in.
Forward a few years and now was their turn to visit Singapore. They dropped by my place on their trip and then suddenly we thought about what was said a few years back. What about their shoes? Would they wear them in? Should we hold on to our usual practice of not wearing shoes in the house or should we make an exception? Fortunately, they decided to adapt to our culture whilst they were in Singapore and not turn this into a difficult situation.
What does this situation tell us? It is not a conflict in all sense of the word but it is still a situation. It was also a potentially difficult scenario which thankfully did not erupt into anything ugly. It might not be the hardest conflict to solve but it does tell us a few things. Firstly, cultures and practices change drastically from place to place. I considered the practice of taking my shoes off as being polite while they felt that it was impolite not to be allowed with their shoes in. Secondly, we must learn to be sensitive and adapt so as to prevent the cross-cultural differences from causing any big problems. For my case, my relatives and I both adapted accordingly and hence no conflict arose. Thirdly, we should keep ourselves informed so that we can pre-empt any differences that can become causes of disagreements.
Everyone has their own set of filters. For the same situation, it might gardner extremely different responses from different people. On top of the lessons learnt from my example, there is at least one more learning point that was not included. Cross-cultures might be a problem but it could also turn into an advantageous position. Not all surprises are bad. If you could impress somone of another culture with your sensitivity and your knowledge of their culture, the "problem" might actually work in your favour.
Happy Chinese New Year everyone and enjoy your holidays.
Sunday, February 7, 2010
Application Letter Draft 2
39 Jalan Anggerek
Singapore 369474
3rd Jan 2010
101A Upper Cross Street
#09-08A, People’s Park Centre
Singapore 058357
Dear Sir/Madam,
HR Consultant Application Letter
I am enclosing my resume in response to your advertisement on monster job search dated 14th Dec 2009.
I am currently undergoing my undergraduate studies at NUS in physics. In physics, students learn to grasp concepts quickly and to apply them to various problems. Since Physics is a subject which requires deriving equations and learning concepts quickly, it trains my ability to analyse links between various topics and applying the necessary mathematical manipulations. Additionally, I am often require to be independent in my learning because of the fast paced lectures, fellow coursemates are either equally clueless or they do not have time to help me out all the time.
On top of my studies in school, I joined the Science Club Dinner and Dance(DND) commitee as the pageant manager. In this role, I managed the welfare of my contestants as well as ensure the smooth running of training sessions as well as the event itself. This demonstrates my ability to work with people as well as the resourcefulness in solving problems to ensure that everything goes according to plan. I would like to emphasise that the bash organised by the DND commitee received favorable review on funkgrad.com. Also, I received a special mention award for my contributions outside the scope of my responsibilities. This emphasises my willingness to go beyond doing my fair bit.
I am interested in this job because I find that constantly strategising and developing new recruitment plans is something very challenging and also something quite different from what I am currently doing. Also, doing mass interviews is something I would enjoy doing because I like to speak and interact with people face to face.
I can take either a full time or a part time job. Since I am still schooling, I do not mind an internship as well. Alternatively, I could take up unpaid work experience. I am really keen to work for your company and I hope you will look favorably at my application. I look forward to hearing from you.
Yours Sincerely,
Mr Jude Too
Singapore 369474
3rd Jan 2010
101A Upper Cross Street
#09-08A, People’s Park Centre
Singapore 058357
Dear Sir/Madam,
HR Consultant Application Letter
I am enclosing my resume in response to your advertisement on monster job search dated 14th Dec 2009.
I am currently undergoing my undergraduate studies at NUS in physics. In physics, students learn to grasp concepts quickly and to apply them to various problems. Since Physics is a subject which requires deriving equations and learning concepts quickly, it trains my ability to analyse links between various topics and applying the necessary mathematical manipulations. Additionally, I am often require to be independent in my learning because of the fast paced lectures, fellow coursemates are either equally clueless or they do not have time to help me out all the time.
On top of my studies in school, I joined the Science Club Dinner and Dance(DND) commitee as the pageant manager. In this role, I managed the welfare of my contestants as well as ensure the smooth running of training sessions as well as the event itself. This demonstrates my ability to work with people as well as the resourcefulness in solving problems to ensure that everything goes according to plan. I would like to emphasise that the bash organised by the DND commitee received favorable review on funkgrad.com. Also, I received a special mention award for my contributions outside the scope of my responsibilities. This emphasises my willingness to go beyond doing my fair bit.
I am interested in this job because I find that constantly strategising and developing new recruitment plans is something very challenging and also something quite different from what I am currently doing. Also, doing mass interviews is something I would enjoy doing because I like to speak and interact with people face to face.
I can take either a full time or a part time job. Since I am still schooling, I do not mind an internship as well. Alternatively, I could take up unpaid work experience. I am really keen to work for your company and I hope you will look favorably at my application. I look forward to hearing from you.
Yours Sincerely,
Mr Jude Too
Thursday, February 4, 2010
Application Letter Draft 1
39 Jalan Anggerek
Singapore 369474
3rd Jan 2010
101A Upper Cross Street
#09-08A, People’s Park Centre
Singapore 058357
Dear Sir/Madam,
HR Consultant(no job reference?)
I am enclosing my resume in response to your advertisement on monster job search dated 14th Dec 2009.
I am currently undergoing my undergraduate studies at NUS in physics. In physics, students learn to grasp concepts quickly and to apply them to various problems. Physics has a few fundamental equations which can be used to derive many other equations. Hence this process trains my ability to analyse links between various topics and applying the necessary mathematical manipulations. Additionally, I am often require to be independent in my learning because of the fast paced lectures, fellow coursemates are either equally clueless or they do not have time to help me out all the time.
On top of my studies in school, I joined the Science Club Dinner and Dance(DND) commitee as the pageant manager. In this role, I was required to take charge of the welfare of my contestants as well as ensure the smooth running of training sessions as well as the event itself. This demonstrates my ability to work with people as well as the resourcefulness in solving problems to ensure that everything goes according to plan. I would like to emphasise that the bash organised by the DND commitee received favorable review on funkgrad.com. Also, I received a special mention award for my contributions outside the scope of my responsibilities. This emphasises my willingness to go beyond doing my fair bit.
I am interested in this job because I find that constantly strategising and developing new recruitment plans is something very challenging and also something quite different from what I am currently doing. Also, doing mass interviews is something I would enjoy doing because I like to speak and interact with people face to face. I am extremely interested in this job because it is engaging and challenging.
I can take either a full time or a part time job. Since I am still schooling, I do not mind an internship as well. Alternatively, I could take up unpaid work experience. I am really keen to work for your company and I hope you will look favorably at my application. I look forward to hearing from you.
Yours Sincerely,
Mr Jude Too
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)