Pedro Montero Reflection Essay

    The first big assignment for professor Sinkoff's class was a group project. Group projects can be a great tool in teaching people to cooperate with each other. It also helps when trying to ensure that everyone in a class learns about multiple topics together. This project took the form of a PowerPoint Presentation in which selected chapters from the class book were discussed. The selected chapters were split between three groups. The presentations went very smoothly and everyone did a good job presenting their information. 

    Group one was assigned chapter three. Their presentation talked about Intercultural Communication. The group described how problems can arise when members of different cultures try to communicate with each other. The group did an amazing job explaining their information. They used videos which were entertaining and educational. They also were not confusing and seemed well prepared for their presentation. By the end, they had clearly explained the central idea of chapter three: understanding differences in culture is key in communicating inter-culturally. 

    Group two was assigned chapter nine. Chapter nine goes over communicating in groups. This is the group to which I was assigned. Our chapter went over types of groups, virtual groups and their challenges, conflicts within groups, and the different types of conflicts that arise within groups. In addition, we learned the many solutions to conflicts that arise in groups. My opinion is that our group presentation was superb. I was pleased with the PowerPoint and the presentation as a whole. I think that we effectively communicated the highlights of our chapter without spending too much time on any subject, which was a fear I had with all the information.

    Group three assigned chapter ten: leadership and problem solving. The group taught the class that groups who work effectively will increase productivity, boost  morale, and generate more chemistry among all group members. Moreover, they discussed leaders and their high level of experience. Group three also went into depth about solutions to communication problems. Overall the group did an excellent job with their presentation and were very engaging.

    In conclusion, each group had a well rounded presentation. The project educated its members on communication and its fundamentals. I enjoyed this assignment not only because of the topics that were addressed but also because it involved the creative process in making the presentation. The use of images and videos in the PowerPoints kept the presentation interesting as well as the members of the groups and their well preparedness. I consider the first major assignment a huge success and the professor seems to think the same.