Reflective Journal 1

SES

Lesson 1

After attending my first Socio-economic Studies tutorial, I believe that there are certain issues to be discussed and reflected on. For one, the assessment style is unique as it is certainly something I have not experienced before. Having not done a research based project before, a research paper and term paper is certainly something new for me. Therefore, I believe that this is an excellent opportunity for me to learn something new, which will definitely be useful in later life. I believe that being in SMTP requires students to do much research work, and being able to craft a research paper with excellent logical flow of ideas is certainly imperative in doing research. This is certainly a stepping stone for me towards the submission of a final research paper as part of the SMTP research module. Reflective journals are also important as it allows us to think back on what we have done. It is an essential part of metacognition, and it is important as it allows us to examine where we have gone wrong and what could have been done better. Besides, these reflective journals allow us to review the various issues discussed during lessons. Thus, we might be able to formulate new train of thoughts that will hone our skill our critical and logical thinking.

The topics covered in Social- economic studies covers a diverse range. However, the main aim of the course is essentially to inform and educate us in the various issues around the world. It is to raise awareness and thus allow us to understand the complexities of certain economic or political relationships between countries. Topics ranges from “The Synthesis of Confucianism and Western Ideas” to “Investigating China’s technological backwardness” give us an insight into the differences of the economic and social landscape between the east and the west. Besides, topics such as “Western technological superiority: The Industrial Revolution in Britain and its impact on the Western society” also focus on the impacts of various incidents. All in all, these topics dissect various key issues around the world, giving multiple sides of the argument to various issues. This will undoubtedly give us a more balanced view of the world, educating us to consider both sides of the argument.

I believe that the subject of Social- Economic Studies is a very useful subject as it will be very beneficial in my later life. This subject is very useful as it broadens our outlook, sharpens our intellect, and inculcates in us the habit of balanced thinking. The study of Economics makes us realize that we as human beings are dependent upon one another for our daily needs. This feeling creates in us the intelligent appreciation of our position and the spirit of co-operation with others. Besides, this subject is of great use in our jobs. As a businessman, the study of such a subject suggests us the ways of bringing about the most economical combinations of the various factors of production at his disposal. It also helps in solving the various intricacies of exchange. From the study of Economics, one can easily judge as to why the prices have risen or fallen. The knowledge of Economics also explains us as to how the reward of various factors of production is determined. Thus, we find that every’ individual can rightly hope to become a better and more efficient consumer, producer and businessman, if he has the working knowledge of economics. Last but not least, an understanding of the different social and economic backgrounds of various countries is especially useful when we are doing business with people of these countries. It is important to have an understanding so as to better relate to people of different cultural backgrounds.

After attempting the CQ assessment, I am able to reflect on my understanding on culture. CQ comprises of 4 components: CQ Drive, CQ Strategy, CQ Knowledge and CQ Action. I think basically, if one has CQ Drive, he can be able to fulfill all the other components. As my CQ Drive is quite low, I intend to gain inspiration from SES lessons if possible. I want to let SES ignite the fire for cultural intelligence within me. I hope by the end of the year, I will develop a passion about culture and be willing to take initiative to learn more about cultural differences. Also, I am pretty glad to be learning more about other cultures, how their economy is like etc, as it is important to possess the ability to adapt to other cultures when I go overseas in the future. I believe that when time comes, these knowledge that I will acquire shall prove to be useful.