A Closer Look at Skill Development

I believe I have improved on a few 21st century skills over the past few weeks. I think I have improved my communication skills. There were quite a few twists and turns as I was in and out of school due to illness, however I communicated with teachers and staff to make sure I stayed on track. I also think I had the ability to be flexible. While I encountered setbacks with supplies my teacher and I were able to work around it and get things done. I also think I have improved my ability to examine my own work critically. After reading over my literature review and getting feedback from peers I am able to look through a new lens.

I think the hardest part of Capstone 2 is waiting. A lot of this course has to do with refining and finalizing procedures which is something I can finish with time management. However when it comes to waiting for supplies to be shipped or for results to come in it can often be like watching paint dry. It is also frustrating when things that need to get done are out of my control. I cannot control when bacteria is ordered or shipped. I also cannot control whether or not the school takes the proper measures to make sure someone receives that bacteria in time and it remains viable. I think the only way to overcome this obstacle is to be patient and and be proactive. I have to be patient with the people who are doing their best to help me make this project happen. I must also be proactive and anticipate possible set backs or lapses of time where I may simply be waiting. I can make use of this time by working on bettering previous or future portions of my proposal and website.

I have seen only a glimpse of what the real world of research looks like. Research at higher levels has a lot to do with advocating for oneself and networking with people who can provide assistance. No good innovation comes from one person and one person alone. While the preparation and methods I am performing may seem rudimentary, simple lab skills will only help me in the future. Real researcher's experience the same problems however on a larger scale. Funding research and obtaining supplies and lab time are probably the biggest problems researchers around the world face. Learning how to deal with these issues will allow me to build endurance. Research take a lot of mental and sometimes even physical endurance. Putting in the extra time and effort to make something happen can be draining and this has made me realize the importance of being passionate about my research.