SES is different from the other academic subjects we have in the school. This is because there is no tests in this particular subject, which provides us with a different experience while learning as we do not face exam-stress. Another unique fact is that the grade at the end of each term or Semester is based on a whole array of assessments such as oral-participation, reflective journals and term presentation. SES is a subject, where we are assessed on a variety of skills, such as presenting, thinking, writing, and even the courage to voice out our own views. Being assessed on so many aspects, it is actually beneficial to us. If we did not perform as expected, we are still able to strive for higher marks in other assessments to pull up the grades. Conversely, if we only had one major test, the stakes are very high. If we did badly for it, then our grade may be affected for the entire year. Therefore, I feel contented that the grading system for SES provides a safety net for us.
One problem that I envisage is that we have to prepare for numerous tutorials and questions and discuss them during the lesson. Such learning style is ineffective, because after preparation, we only have a limited time to discuss the questions. Therefore we did not explore and probe the questions deeply. We merely discuss the questions on a superficial level, and many of us have a simplistic view of certain issues. In term one, from my observations, many classmates feel that the Western perception of self is just about rights, while China's perception of self is just sacrificing own interests for the community. I feel that such teaching style is ineffective because students may formulate simplistic and often false interpretation of certain topics if the topics are not discussed in great detail. I would rather spend all my efforts preparing for one or two questions, and probing deep into the issue, rather than doing so many questions, and only tapping into the "superficial level". This way, I believe that we would understand the tutorial and issues much better, instead of discussing a wide scope of issues and not fully understanding them. Even though our teacher cut down on the number of questions we have to prepare, I think we still do not have sufficient time to probe deep into the issues as after the class presentations, as there is only about 10 minutes left for class discussion led by the teacher and we cannot discuss in great detail. We are still "stuck" at the "superficial level". What I propose is that the teacher discuss one tutorial per week, use one lesson for class presentation, and use the next lesson for teacher-led discussion. This way we are provided with adequate time for discussions. Even though we may not be able to finish all the tutorials due to the lack of time, we are still able to have a full comprehension and grasp of the knowledge taught in class. In this way, effective learning can be carried out and we are able to garner the key concepts discussed as we are able to have fruitful discussions in class.
SES helps me to train crucial skills for my future. An example would be the term presentation, where we have to present our ideas to the class, and we also have to facilitate discussion. We are assessed on how we engage the audience, and the constructive feedback by our peers help us to understand our areas of inadequacy. This way, we can improve, and be more proficient speakers in the future, which may be beneficial for our career.
SES shaped me into a critical thinker. I discovered that I am not a very good thinker, since I realized that my perceptions of the world is largely influenced by what the American writers and politicians talk about. Before I had taken up the subject, I always had the notion that Western practices are modernized and perfect, while Asian and Eastern culture is defunct. However, SES shaped my perspective differently. After several tutorials, I discovered that there are many conspicuous flaws in the democratic political-platform, such as the uneven distribution of power due to influence and wealth. At the same time, I took a new look at the advantages the social hierarchy, that Confucianism promoted, brings to China. One advantage would be the efficiency to implement policies unhindered. We should not follow what others say, as we need to formulate our own perceptions, and listen to our true heart. In the course of SES, we are made to read about the management styles, history, politics, and economies of both worlds. We are also provided with opportunities to voice out our opinion through reflective journals and research papers, after understanding both cultures, and weighing the advantages and disadvantages of both spheres. I feel that this is an indispensable and crucial skill that a wise man should have. A wise and matured thinker, is able to weigh the "pros" and "cons" of a particular issue, and reach a verdict. He will not be easily influenced by what the majority thinks. SES helped me to take a step back, and observe and explore the complete picture of a particular issue, before making a decision. This skill will definitely help me to make decisions that are the best and most beneficial to me in the future.
(819 words)
Monday, April 30, 2012
Wednesday, March 28, 2012
Reflective Journal 4: Reflect on the societal problems faced by China and America. (Hint: you must definitely explain your responses to these societal
America and China, the 2 economic superpowers of the recent 21st Century, both have dominating influence over the world. After studying both societies, I gradually began to find loopholes and problems in both societies which are extremely hard to resolve.
For America, I feel that the most pressing and serious societal issue is its debt crisis. Being born in an Asian family, and believing that debts are unacceptable; I was shocked at America's situation. A nation is actually loaning money from the rest of the world, instead of generating revenue to cover up its expenses. With a huge debt, it is unlikely that America will have much reserves to support the itself should there be another imminent crisis.
This issue is in dire need of a fast and effective solution. To me, the debt crisis is not solely an economic issue. It is actually a vast and complicated web that stretches across politics, foreign relations, credibility of the nation, and the global economy as a whole. If not enough pressure is exerted on the debt, and the United States continue the trend of loaning money to pay off its debt, I think that it will lose credibility. Other countries may speculate that the America is unable to pay its debt, and they may not want to lend money to a customer who is not very trustable in the return of money. With no potential monetary sources, America would be bankrupt. Once this happens, I think there will be calamity in the global economy, since the U.S. Dollar will be devalued, and affect the multiple trades that are based on the U.S. Dollar. With countries have crucial links and dependency on each other, the fall of America would lead to a negative chain effect. Also, if the debt grows to such a high degree, where there is no viable method to pay it, the government may be "coerced" to declare bankruptcy as well. Therefore, I feel that the nation must solve such an issue quickly, as it holds the world at stake.
I think that the government should be responsible in resolving this issue. They are the ones who formulate the policies and decisions of the country, and they are elected by the people to meet the interests of the nation as well as to resolve the nation’s issues. But, in this case, I think it is impossible to resolve such a crisis based on America's political system. To effectively limit the debt, and to compress it, America should cut down on expenses. But, trimming expenses may affect the benefits the people receive. This will stir up discontentment amongst the populace, and they would not want to vote for the ruling party. If I were an American, I would have a propensity to support a party that provides all kinds of benefits and subsidies, instead of voting for one that promotes slimmer expenses. Since many parties are fighting for positions in the political realm, I feel that parties would tend to increase expenditures to appease the people to stay entrenched in politics. Therefore, I feel that it is almost impossible to resolve the debt crisis.
On the other side of the globe, I think China's dire societal issue would be corporate misbehavior. This problem has been increasingly more serious in recent years, with more and more examples been exposed, such as poisonous milk powders and unhealthy oils. Having lived in China for the first few years of my life, I begin to feel disgusted and infuriated, since I had drunk the same brand of milk powder when I was young! Furthermore, whenever I go back to China, I would have to have much prior-contemplation before I buy any food. Me and some Chinese citizens had complaint about losing confidence in China-produced goods, as it affects the well-being of the populace. I think that importers of China-produced goods may potentially lose confidence in the goods, if this problem continues, and may terminate contracts. This in turn wreaks havoc in the national economy, since exporting is a main driving force in China's economy.
I think it is also almost impossible to resolve this issue. China has the largest population in the world and contains many industries. Stricter legislation, as proposed by some individuals, would be ineffective since it is impossible for authorities to dig out all the illegal chemicals in products and to punish every guilty corporation. It is also hard to put each corporation under surveillance. Furthermore, I feel that with deteriorating corruption situation in China, the corporations can use funds to bribe the officials to conduct lax tests in a bid to not reveal the illegal chemicals. Therefore, it would be hard to resolve such a problem.
In all, I feel alarmed that the 2 economic super-powers of the world actually faces such serious problems, that are hard to resolve, in each society. If they face such dire issues within their own territories, I wonder how they rose up the ranks in the world. We could only pray that the 2 nations are not engulfed by their own problems, or else there would be drastic implications spreading to the shores of the rest of the world.
817 words
For America, I feel that the most pressing and serious societal issue is its debt crisis. Being born in an Asian family, and believing that debts are unacceptable; I was shocked at America's situation. A nation is actually loaning money from the rest of the world, instead of generating revenue to cover up its expenses. With a huge debt, it is unlikely that America will have much reserves to support the itself should there be another imminent crisis.
This issue is in dire need of a fast and effective solution. To me, the debt crisis is not solely an economic issue. It is actually a vast and complicated web that stretches across politics, foreign relations, credibility of the nation, and the global economy as a whole. If not enough pressure is exerted on the debt, and the United States continue the trend of loaning money to pay off its debt, I think that it will lose credibility. Other countries may speculate that the America is unable to pay its debt, and they may not want to lend money to a customer who is not very trustable in the return of money. With no potential monetary sources, America would be bankrupt. Once this happens, I think there will be calamity in the global economy, since the U.S. Dollar will be devalued, and affect the multiple trades that are based on the U.S. Dollar. With countries have crucial links and dependency on each other, the fall of America would lead to a negative chain effect. Also, if the debt grows to such a high degree, where there is no viable method to pay it, the government may be "coerced" to declare bankruptcy as well. Therefore, I feel that the nation must solve such an issue quickly, as it holds the world at stake.
I think that the government should be responsible in resolving this issue. They are the ones who formulate the policies and decisions of the country, and they are elected by the people to meet the interests of the nation as well as to resolve the nation’s issues. But, in this case, I think it is impossible to resolve such a crisis based on America's political system. To effectively limit the debt, and to compress it, America should cut down on expenses. But, trimming expenses may affect the benefits the people receive. This will stir up discontentment amongst the populace, and they would not want to vote for the ruling party. If I were an American, I would have a propensity to support a party that provides all kinds of benefits and subsidies, instead of voting for one that promotes slimmer expenses. Since many parties are fighting for positions in the political realm, I feel that parties would tend to increase expenditures to appease the people to stay entrenched in politics. Therefore, I feel that it is almost impossible to resolve the debt crisis.
On the other side of the globe, I think China's dire societal issue would be corporate misbehavior. This problem has been increasingly more serious in recent years, with more and more examples been exposed, such as poisonous milk powders and unhealthy oils. Having lived in China for the first few years of my life, I begin to feel disgusted and infuriated, since I had drunk the same brand of milk powder when I was young! Furthermore, whenever I go back to China, I would have to have much prior-contemplation before I buy any food. Me and some Chinese citizens had complaint about losing confidence in China-produced goods, as it affects the well-being of the populace. I think that importers of China-produced goods may potentially lose confidence in the goods, if this problem continues, and may terminate contracts. This in turn wreaks havoc in the national economy, since exporting is a main driving force in China's economy.
I think it is also almost impossible to resolve this issue. China has the largest population in the world and contains many industries. Stricter legislation, as proposed by some individuals, would be ineffective since it is impossible for authorities to dig out all the illegal chemicals in products and to punish every guilty corporation. It is also hard to put each corporation under surveillance. Furthermore, I feel that with deteriorating corruption situation in China, the corporations can use funds to bribe the officials to conduct lax tests in a bid to not reveal the illegal chemicals. Therefore, it would be hard to resolve such a problem.
In all, I feel alarmed that the 2 economic super-powers of the world actually faces such serious problems, that are hard to resolve, in each society. If they face such dire issues within their own territories, I wonder how they rose up the ranks in the world. We could only pray that the 2 nations are not engulfed by their own problems, or else there would be drastic implications spreading to the shores of the rest of the world.
817 words
Tuesday, February 14, 2012
Reflective Journal 3
Out of the 2 perceptions of self, I feel that the Chinese perception has a greater impact in my life. Being born in China, I had been influenced by Chinese perception of self from a futile age. Values such as humility and loyalty are drilled into me by traditional Chinese grandparents. I respect the hierarchy within my family, even though I was one of the younger generations and stood the lowest among the huge family tree. I would listen to my elders politely in respect for them, and I would never dare to defy any mandatory demands from them.
In school, I was also greatly influenced by Chinese perceptions. In Hwa Chong Institution, values such as respect, "yin shui si yuan" (giving back to society) and win-win are emphasized greatly. In my opinion, these values shaped my school of thought and are also demonstrated through my actions in some cases. An example would be bowing down to teachers as a sign of respect for him/her. These values teach us to understand our ranks in society, to respect for the elderly and for those of higher status than we do. Indirectly, this creates a social hierarchy where everyone lives harmoniously with each other due to respect of superiority. The Chinese perception of self also teaches one to be grateful and giving back to society and our benefactors. This is manifested in my childhood dream, where I want to get a good job in the future, and donate large amounts of wealth back to society and my benefactors so that more people would benefit from my munificence. It encourages one to put the community above self, and to sacrifice some self-interests for the greater good. For group work, I would reckon it worthy to spend much effort to accomplish it well. I would put the group above my self-interests to work towards higher benchmarks for the benefit of all group members.
However, I cannot deny that the American perception of self also has a great impact in my life. It emphasizes much on Liberty and freedom of different choices. This perception is also demonstrated in our daily lives. For example, social net-working sites such as facebook and twitter encourages freedom of speech. It acts as a platform for one to voice out one's views without having to fear being jailed or reprimanded for doing so. The education in Hwa Chong also enhances its impact on me. In school, I have to speak up during class discussions and during Current Affairs sessions because it is actually a component in our grades. In such an education, I am encouraged to speak up bravely, which has an acquaintance with the American perception's freedom of speech.
From my perspective, I would see myself as another ordinary building block of society. I think that everything that I every owned, is given to me by society and the generosity by numerous philanthropists. Just like the Chinese perception, I feel strongly that we should all work towards a common goal and put society above self. In this way, we are able to advance together at a high speed, since a group of people are able to muster much more power and strength than the individual. I think that by doing so, we are able to bring a greater good for everyone. We should also respect our leaders and elders to ensure social harmony. They are of a higher status than us, and we should respect the social hierarchy to minimise conflicts between people of different statuses.
After attending SES lesson, I feel that I have to re-examine myself in society. After taking a step back and analysing both perceptions of self, I have to admit that I felt more inclined towards the American perception of equality and individual rights and freedom. I feel that we should not just adhere to the laws of a nation or the instructions of our superiors without any thought. We have think and question them critically, and not just blindly. Furthermore, I think that questioning our superior is not necessarily being rude or defiant. We are just broadening the perspective so that there will be minimum flaws in the judgements. I also do not think that it is fair solely for the superior to make important decisions, in the context of the workplace and in society. All of us a part of it, and we too, should be in charge of doing what is best for ourselves. Since all of us are a part of society, then we should emphasize on equality for everyone, not conforming to the social hierarchy and only listening to the superiors. We should also exercise our rights and make decision for society together.
In all, I feel that both perceptions have affected my thinking and behaviour, but the Chinese perception had the greater impact due to my roots and the education I receive. Both perceptions have their advantages and disadvantages, and it is not necessary to adopt either one. I would incorporate the beneficial elements into my own unique perception which will shape me into a gentleman, critical thinker and play a better role in society.
(815 words)
In school, I was also greatly influenced by Chinese perceptions. In Hwa Chong Institution, values such as respect, "yin shui si yuan" (giving back to society) and win-win are emphasized greatly. In my opinion, these values shaped my school of thought and are also demonstrated through my actions in some cases. An example would be bowing down to teachers as a sign of respect for him/her. These values teach us to understand our ranks in society, to respect for the elderly and for those of higher status than we do. Indirectly, this creates a social hierarchy where everyone lives harmoniously with each other due to respect of superiority. The Chinese perception of self also teaches one to be grateful and giving back to society and our benefactors. This is manifested in my childhood dream, where I want to get a good job in the future, and donate large amounts of wealth back to society and my benefactors so that more people would benefit from my munificence. It encourages one to put the community above self, and to sacrifice some self-interests for the greater good. For group work, I would reckon it worthy to spend much effort to accomplish it well. I would put the group above my self-interests to work towards higher benchmarks for the benefit of all group members.
However, I cannot deny that the American perception of self also has a great impact in my life. It emphasizes much on Liberty and freedom of different choices. This perception is also demonstrated in our daily lives. For example, social net-working sites such as facebook and twitter encourages freedom of speech. It acts as a platform for one to voice out one's views without having to fear being jailed or reprimanded for doing so. The education in Hwa Chong also enhances its impact on me. In school, I have to speak up during class discussions and during Current Affairs sessions because it is actually a component in our grades. In such an education, I am encouraged to speak up bravely, which has an acquaintance with the American perception's freedom of speech.
From my perspective, I would see myself as another ordinary building block of society. I think that everything that I every owned, is given to me by society and the generosity by numerous philanthropists. Just like the Chinese perception, I feel strongly that we should all work towards a common goal and put society above self. In this way, we are able to advance together at a high speed, since a group of people are able to muster much more power and strength than the individual. I think that by doing so, we are able to bring a greater good for everyone. We should also respect our leaders and elders to ensure social harmony. They are of a higher status than us, and we should respect the social hierarchy to minimise conflicts between people of different statuses.
After attending SES lesson, I feel that I have to re-examine myself in society. After taking a step back and analysing both perceptions of self, I have to admit that I felt more inclined towards the American perception of equality and individual rights and freedom. I feel that we should not just adhere to the laws of a nation or the instructions of our superiors without any thought. We have think and question them critically, and not just blindly. Furthermore, I think that questioning our superior is not necessarily being rude or defiant. We are just broadening the perspective so that there will be minimum flaws in the judgements. I also do not think that it is fair solely for the superior to make important decisions, in the context of the workplace and in society. All of us a part of it, and we too, should be in charge of doing what is best for ourselves. Since all of us are a part of society, then we should emphasize on equality for everyone, not conforming to the social hierarchy and only listening to the superiors. We should also exercise our rights and make decision for society together.
In all, I feel that both perceptions have affected my thinking and behaviour, but the Chinese perception had the greater impact due to my roots and the education I receive. Both perceptions have their advantages and disadvantages, and it is not necessary to adopt either one. I would incorporate the beneficial elements into my own unique perception which will shape me into a gentleman, critical thinker and play a better role in society.
(815 words)
Monday, January 30, 2012
Graded Reflective Journal 1
For the past few lessons, we analysed the working cultures and management styles of 2 different companies, which are Google and Lenovo. I feel that the different working cultures and management styles of both companies reflect their respective societies. For instance, Google is an American company. An American society believes in freedom, and the equal rights of everyone to speak out. This is evident in Google's working culture and management style, since much amenities are provided for employees to recreate and relax. Employees are also given 20% of their time to develop new projects and come out with new proposals based on their personal interest. These evidences show that Google doesn't restrain its employees but instead gave them more space to develop their own projects and much recreation. Therefore the idea of "Freedom" is evident in Google's working culture. The rights of people to speak out is also manifested in Google's management style. Employers actually listen to employees who have new proposals and who have constructive ideas on the prospects of the company. Employees are also given the right to comment on other people's proposals or project to improve the products together. This shows that Google's employees are not restrained by a strict hierarchy and bureaucracy but are able to voice out their thoughts and improve the products. Therefore the management style and working culture of Google reflects the American society.
I feel that Lenovo's working culture and management style also reflect the Chinese society. China is ruled by the Communist Party, and it still has a huge clout on the society. Communism believes in having a supreme leader or leading group, who will lead the country. This is much evident in Lenovo, where "a powerful CEO gives orders to a hierarchy of workers" (from: http://www.strategy-business.com/article/li00126?gko=a2988). Such leadership resembles Communist Ideology in China as a leading figure rules over the organization. Furthermore, employees in Lenovo are not given the freedom to voice out their opinions in the company. They usually take orders from the manager. According to the URL above, people "frown on lower-level employees proposing ideas to their superiors". This enhances the lack of freedom and rights in Lenovo. Such phenomenon is evident in China, as under Communism rule, people have little freedom and rights and do not have the right to voice out their thoughts to superior leaders. The censored materials and the control of the media caused Chinese individuals to have little freedom on what to watch or do. Therefore, the management style and working culture of Lenovo reflects the Chinese society.
Of course, there are advantages and disadvantages of the 2 management styles and working cultures in modern societies. For Google, I feel that by giving much freedom and the right to talk to employees, more creative ideas will be generated and products would be improved greatly. The reason is that creativity cannot be forced and cannot be squeezed out of one's brain. It requires one to observe, relax, and observe something from different perspectives. Furthermore, by granting 20% of their working time to develop individual project proposals and projects, Google will have a wide spectrum of projects to choose from, which widened their choices and will be beneficial in the long run. By granting employees with the right to voice out their views, Google is actually improving its products. With a greater audience to judge a project, more disadvantages to certain people can be corrected and better insights could be used to improve it.
There are also disadvantages to Google's management style and working culture. Google cannot make sure that its employees are not using the amenities for granted. If employees only use the amenities but do not work, then Google had failed a large investment. Even worse, these attractive amenities act as a distraction for workers who are doing their work. With low commitment and attention, projects would not be done as expected. This will affect the prospects of Google.
Even though writer Holstein, William feels strongly that Lenovo's management style and working culture results in incompetitiveness of the company at the International sphere, I still feel that there are advantages of the "monarchy" regime. When the CEO and a group of executives make a decision, there will be no opposing alternative or view. The order will be implemented promptly, and all the bureaucracy and the procedures would be done. Matters would be resolved with a high level of efficiency within the company, and the organization will be able to progress at a fast pace provided that the decision or order is a wise one.
Then, there comes the disadvantages. If the CEO and the group of executives made the wrong decision, then the prospects of the company would be at a great stake. Micheal Schuman mentions that "Liu guided the company by trial and error through the rapid swings and shifts of China's ever changing economy". This may prove to be dangerous, as when the leader(s) make(s) an incorrect yet important decision, there will be no opposing view in the company. If so, then the whole company will suffer a great loss.
For me, I feel that I am more inclined towards Google's way of management and working culture. I feel that when a company employs a person, it should provide the employee with the necessary space and time for one to work according to their own ways and preferences. Only by working comfortably can one develop one's own potential. The amenities in Google further enriches the conducive environment for creativity and high-efficiency work to thrive. Even though policies may be implemented at a slower rate, major mistakes are minimised as a greater crowd of people are providing feedback on the different products. By having many constructive feedback from its workers, Google is able to take care of the common problems faced by the populace and to meet their expectations. Even though Lenovo also has breached impossible benchmarks with its strict hierarchy, I still feel that creativity and meeting the expectations of the masses is critical for great success in the 21st Century.
(1010 words)
I feel that Lenovo's working culture and management style also reflect the Chinese society. China is ruled by the Communist Party, and it still has a huge clout on the society. Communism believes in having a supreme leader or leading group, who will lead the country. This is much evident in Lenovo, where "a powerful CEO gives orders to a hierarchy of workers" (from: http://www.strategy-business.com/article/li00126?gko=a2988). Such leadership resembles Communist Ideology in China as a leading figure rules over the organization. Furthermore, employees in Lenovo are not given the freedom to voice out their opinions in the company. They usually take orders from the manager. According to the URL above, people "frown on lower-level employees proposing ideas to their superiors". This enhances the lack of freedom and rights in Lenovo. Such phenomenon is evident in China, as under Communism rule, people have little freedom and rights and do not have the right to voice out their thoughts to superior leaders. The censored materials and the control of the media caused Chinese individuals to have little freedom on what to watch or do. Therefore, the management style and working culture of Lenovo reflects the Chinese society.
Of course, there are advantages and disadvantages of the 2 management styles and working cultures in modern societies. For Google, I feel that by giving much freedom and the right to talk to employees, more creative ideas will be generated and products would be improved greatly. The reason is that creativity cannot be forced and cannot be squeezed out of one's brain. It requires one to observe, relax, and observe something from different perspectives. Furthermore, by granting 20% of their working time to develop individual project proposals and projects, Google will have a wide spectrum of projects to choose from, which widened their choices and will be beneficial in the long run. By granting employees with the right to voice out their views, Google is actually improving its products. With a greater audience to judge a project, more disadvantages to certain people can be corrected and better insights could be used to improve it.
There are also disadvantages to Google's management style and working culture. Google cannot make sure that its employees are not using the amenities for granted. If employees only use the amenities but do not work, then Google had failed a large investment. Even worse, these attractive amenities act as a distraction for workers who are doing their work. With low commitment and attention, projects would not be done as expected. This will affect the prospects of Google.
Even though writer Holstein, William feels strongly that Lenovo's management style and working culture results in incompetitiveness of the company at the International sphere, I still feel that there are advantages of the "monarchy" regime. When the CEO and a group of executives make a decision, there will be no opposing alternative or view. The order will be implemented promptly, and all the bureaucracy and the procedures would be done. Matters would be resolved with a high level of efficiency within the company, and the organization will be able to progress at a fast pace provided that the decision or order is a wise one.
Then, there comes the disadvantages. If the CEO and the group of executives made the wrong decision, then the prospects of the company would be at a great stake. Micheal Schuman mentions that "Liu guided the company by trial and error through the rapid swings and shifts of China's ever changing economy". This may prove to be dangerous, as when the leader(s) make(s) an incorrect yet important decision, there will be no opposing view in the company. If so, then the whole company will suffer a great loss.
For me, I feel that I am more inclined towards Google's way of management and working culture. I feel that when a company employs a person, it should provide the employee with the necessary space and time for one to work according to their own ways and preferences. Only by working comfortably can one develop one's own potential. The amenities in Google further enriches the conducive environment for creativity and high-efficiency work to thrive. Even though policies may be implemented at a slower rate, major mistakes are minimised as a greater crowd of people are providing feedback on the different products. By having many constructive feedback from its workers, Google is able to take care of the common problems faced by the populace and to meet their expectations. Even though Lenovo also has breached impossible benchmarks with its strict hierarchy, I still feel that creativity and meeting the expectations of the masses is critical for great success in the 21st Century.
(1010 words)
Tuesday, January 17, 2012
Reflective Journal 1
Today, we had our first Socio-Economics Studies lesson. The SES is actually a new course in our school. Before the lesson, my impression of Socio-Economics Studies was actually "Social Economics Studies", which would mostly revolve around Singapore's Social and Economics issues over the span of its development. However, the teacher's introduction of this programme changed my whole view of it. Based on what I can recall, this programme introduces the differences and similarities of the societies of China and the Western World. This course also encompasses other aspects, such as the different cultures, different ideologies, and the problems faced by both societies.
I was surprised yet contented that the school had provided such as course for us. I was surprised as I had expected to learn about Singapore's economy and society. Instead, I would be studying and analysing the cultures societies of China and the Western nations. However, my surprise was tinged with content. The reason is that the school is actually preparing us to survive in the future. In this highly tumultuous and fast-changing world, countries such as China are catching up with Western economic superpowers. Analysts estimate that by 2016, China may overtake America and countries in the European Union. Because we would be reaching adulthood by then, we need to have a certain understanding about the different cultures, economies, and problems faced. By having such wisdom, we are able to entrench ourselves safely on either countries. Therefore, learning such a course is actually preparing us to fare better in the future. Thus, I am contented. Furthermore, I feel that learning about China and Western cultures are also a part of the school's plans to inculcate bi-cultural understanding and encouraging effective bi-lingualism in students. By having a deep understanding of both cultures, languages, principles of thought, and practices, I feel that the school is again preparing us adequately for the future societies, where we can work both in the Western world and China with ease. Such mere thought of the future makes me very excited and happy to take on such a elective.
After the introduction of the course, we had our first SES tutorial. Today, we mainly discussed about Cultural Intelligence. There are altogether 3 competencies in CQ-- Drive, Knowledge, Strategy and Action.
This was the first time I was exposed to the ideology Cultural Intelligence. My definition of Cultural Intelligence, is to be aware of other's cultural backgrounds, being culturally sensitive and acceptance of unfamiliar practices, and the ability to adapt to different cultural settings. Albeit not having a firm grasp on it, I feel that Cultural Intelligence is highly efficient in the modern world. With the development of modern transport and the growing reliance of nations on one another, it is evitable that we will cross into the paths of foreigners from a different cultural background. By having a high CQ, we will be able to commune or make friends with them effectively without offending them. Such bonds of friendship not only makes us more wise and knowledgeable, but may also provide business or international cooperations on a large scale. I certainly feel that people who do not muster the 4 competencies of Cultural Intelligence will find it difficult to compete in a highly sophisticated and modern world. Therefore I feel that CQ is highly efficient in the modern world.
Commenting on the the way lessons are carried out, I feel quite strange and certainly quite uncomfortable on the mode of teaching. In this lesson, almost the whole hour was spent on discussions on different aspects of Cultural Intelligence. (The reason is simply because the school's Internet had broke down and we cannot access websites.) The teacher asks us many questions, and we volunteered to answer them. I felt a certain sense of uneasiness, since normally lessons were not carried out this way. Another reason is because I am not a avid outspoken person who likes to voice out my views during lessons. The fact that class participation was counted in termly grades further rubbed salt into my wounds. Albeit not being suited for such lesson modes, I hope that I would get use to it in the future and would respond eagerly to the teacher's questions.
Luckily, today's teaching mode was temporary due to the fact that the Internet was down. In the future, I would hope for more content-orientated lessons which included power point presentations or watching of videos instead of more class discussions. I prefer individual presentation over class discussion, since I would be granted with more time to craft my arguments and will be able to express myself fluently instead of thinking of answers to answer the teacher's questions.
The mode of assessment of SES is also very different from normal lessons. We will not have examinations. Instead, they would be replaced by class-participation, individual class presentation, reflective journals, and a research paper. Although I may not want to accept an unfamiliar mode of assessment, I still support it as it trains our skills to craft arguments and also teaches us to voice out our opinions confidently. I feel that the research paper is also a part of the assessment to teach us the skills to write effectively in the future. I feel that such a mode of assessment is very complicated as compared to the normal exams, since there are so many factors that contribute to the final grades. However I still look forward to it, with the knowledge that these "tests" will better prepare me for the future.
After briefly reading the syllabus outline on the SES website, I feel that lessons should be quite fruitful. The reason is that we will be learning both Idealogies of China and the Western World, and through this we would be able to compare the differences and similarities. The syllabus is also filled with case-studies to practice our skills and knowledge of different ideologies. However, I feel that more case-studies or examples could be given to further enhance our understanding of contemporary issues and to learn both idealogies of China and the Western World.
I was surprised yet contented that the school had provided such as course for us. I was surprised as I had expected to learn about Singapore's economy and society. Instead, I would be studying and analysing the cultures societies of China and the Western nations. However, my surprise was tinged with content. The reason is that the school is actually preparing us to survive in the future. In this highly tumultuous and fast-changing world, countries such as China are catching up with Western economic superpowers. Analysts estimate that by 2016, China may overtake America and countries in the European Union. Because we would be reaching adulthood by then, we need to have a certain understanding about the different cultures, economies, and problems faced. By having such wisdom, we are able to entrench ourselves safely on either countries. Therefore, learning such a course is actually preparing us to fare better in the future. Thus, I am contented. Furthermore, I feel that learning about China and Western cultures are also a part of the school's plans to inculcate bi-cultural understanding and encouraging effective bi-lingualism in students. By having a deep understanding of both cultures, languages, principles of thought, and practices, I feel that the school is again preparing us adequately for the future societies, where we can work both in the Western world and China with ease. Such mere thought of the future makes me very excited and happy to take on such a elective.
After the introduction of the course, we had our first SES tutorial. Today, we mainly discussed about Cultural Intelligence. There are altogether 3 competencies in CQ-- Drive, Knowledge, Strategy and Action.
This was the first time I was exposed to the ideology Cultural Intelligence. My definition of Cultural Intelligence, is to be aware of other's cultural backgrounds, being culturally sensitive and acceptance of unfamiliar practices, and the ability to adapt to different cultural settings. Albeit not having a firm grasp on it, I feel that Cultural Intelligence is highly efficient in the modern world. With the development of modern transport and the growing reliance of nations on one another, it is evitable that we will cross into the paths of foreigners from a different cultural background. By having a high CQ, we will be able to commune or make friends with them effectively without offending them. Such bonds of friendship not only makes us more wise and knowledgeable, but may also provide business or international cooperations on a large scale. I certainly feel that people who do not muster the 4 competencies of Cultural Intelligence will find it difficult to compete in a highly sophisticated and modern world. Therefore I feel that CQ is highly efficient in the modern world.
Commenting on the the way lessons are carried out, I feel quite strange and certainly quite uncomfortable on the mode of teaching. In this lesson, almost the whole hour was spent on discussions on different aspects of Cultural Intelligence. (The reason is simply because the school's Internet had broke down and we cannot access websites.) The teacher asks us many questions, and we volunteered to answer them. I felt a certain sense of uneasiness, since normally lessons were not carried out this way. Another reason is because I am not a avid outspoken person who likes to voice out my views during lessons. The fact that class participation was counted in termly grades further rubbed salt into my wounds. Albeit not being suited for such lesson modes, I hope that I would get use to it in the future and would respond eagerly to the teacher's questions.
Luckily, today's teaching mode was temporary due to the fact that the Internet was down. In the future, I would hope for more content-orientated lessons which included power point presentations or watching of videos instead of more class discussions. I prefer individual presentation over class discussion, since I would be granted with more time to craft my arguments and will be able to express myself fluently instead of thinking of answers to answer the teacher's questions.
The mode of assessment of SES is also very different from normal lessons. We will not have examinations. Instead, they would be replaced by class-participation, individual class presentation, reflective journals, and a research paper. Although I may not want to accept an unfamiliar mode of assessment, I still support it as it trains our skills to craft arguments and also teaches us to voice out our opinions confidently. I feel that the research paper is also a part of the assessment to teach us the skills to write effectively in the future. I feel that such a mode of assessment is very complicated as compared to the normal exams, since there are so many factors that contribute to the final grades. However I still look forward to it, with the knowledge that these "tests" will better prepare me for the future.
After briefly reading the syllabus outline on the SES website, I feel that lessons should be quite fruitful. The reason is that we will be learning both Idealogies of China and the Western World, and through this we would be able to compare the differences and similarities. The syllabus is also filled with case-studies to practice our skills and knowledge of different ideologies. However, I feel that more case-studies or examples could be given to further enhance our understanding of contemporary issues and to learn both idealogies of China and the Western World.
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