I used Primary and Secondary resources, to cover my project. Resources like websites, articles, books, documentaries, surveys, interviews helped. To check the validity of my sources I used an OPVL analysis. During the entire project I used the MLA 8 format, to site my sources.
SELF-MANAGEMENT SKILLS
When started the personal project in the summer, the action plan was the first task. These would help prioritize the tasks, to complete the project (Appendix A). I kept a written calendar, where I could plan my school and personal project task according. Most of my research was done during the summer. Hence, I rarely changed any dates or timings. I assisted my peers in their personal projects. Students needed questionnaires to be done. My friend asked me to view his YouTube channel and give constructive feedback. I did this is to improve my own self-management skills.
AFFECTIVE SKILLS
When doing a project with a long due date, I needing to pick a passionate topic and a topic that would help me in the future. I had narrowed it down to two options (Appendix E). The first project writing a book on the strategies used in an American Football. The next option was build/creating renewable affordable housing. By doing research about Dubai environment and how renewable energy (Solar power) would work great because of all the sun. After doing some calculations (Appendix D) I realized that investing in solar power would work out cheaper than paying electric bills (this include heating, light, and sewage). During research I also learned that option 2 is beneficial to the UAE. While option 1 would not be. I was very hard choosing between these topics, but I decide to choose option 2 because it would be a great resource to use in the future.
REFLECTIVE SKILLS
While writing the report and making the product, it was helpful writing keeping a process journal to reflect and see my progress during the personal product deadlines. This important because I could easily see what my next task was and how I could improve. I realized that reflecting on these different problems helped me solve them. This would be shown in my process journal and what I said, and I did during the process. I always reflected on every step I made.
THINKING SKILLS
I personally feel that I have demonstrated well defined communication skills right through my project. Besides, I also improved by research ability in gathering both, primary and secondary resources. Not having a science background, I learned a lot about solar cells and circuits and the various items like transistors and resistors, which finally convert solar energy electrons into light. I had set questionnaires and sent to various friends and classmates and build a data base, coming from their opinions on solar power and uses of renewable energy for future. I also found out how it would affect them economically. I also had more insight on the effect of using fossil fuels and its negative impact on our environment. This brought out the best in my communication skills. I also enquired around with my supervisor and friends who had done projects in their school days. Many of our neighbors gave me constructive feedback whilst building the house. This aided in reducing mistakes and think differently. Perfect for my project. {4} However, due to the present pandemic, my social skills were limited to few people. This would not have happened during normal times. I would have learned much more practically. Without doubt, whoever I spoke to was convinced that renewable energy is the way forward. I was impressed with my projects ability to convince people that they should use less electricity and water as these were harmful to tour environment. Also stressed that water is a perishable commodity and many places around the world lack it. I had long discussions with my family at home, on the urgent need for solar and renewable energy and water conservation. (see Appendix G)
COMMUNICATION SKILLS
I demonstrated communication when gathering primary and secondary information. I had interviewed a former student who’s had previous experience on the project and the strengths and weaknesses. I also conducted and a questionnaire that practice on my ethical writing which improved my social skills. However, I feel that I could implemented my social skills. I talked to people about the idea of using renewable housing as a potential solution to an environmental and economical solution. I was able to inspires residents of UAE and encourage them to and accept this solution looking to the future. My model is the example of how residents and implements this solution. The problem with solar panels is that in need to be quality and will eventually cost a lot of money. In UAE, 40% of jobs are minimum waged jobs and therefore people who pay less for rent, electricity, water, and sewage would not profit from solar panels {7} (Appendix D). I have also assisted friends when asked questions about the personal project like “what appendices do we have to include” etc. This help improve my communication skill with my peers in school. I thought the criteria C and creating the product was a long process in which I was faced by challenges and victories. Challenges that included the drying of paint, the glue gun, and the tool knife. Due to this challenge to make the process even longer. I also faced mental issues like the creation of my 3D model which took a long process to create because I had to start from the beginning. After defecting those challenges, I felt confident for the completion of Criteria C