Writing Development

I can most definitely see an improvement in my own writing throughout this semester. I noticed how
much stronger I was as a writer after editing my instructions usability report, white paper, and
workplace correspondence email and memo. I noticed that I was able to identify mistakes prior to even
reading peer review edits and the feedback from the professor. I struggled with understanding
assignments, specifically I struggled with the layouts. I figured that as long as I was strong with the
information I was putting out, it would make up for maybe missing an aspect of the layout here and
there. What I did not realize is that the directions for the layout were clear, and it was I who was making
it complicated. I believe that I could have edited the layouts prior to even reading the feedback, if I had
just given it another try after submitting the assignment. I believe that I could have improved by taking
my time on assignments. I also would have pushed harder to be in a group that actually submitted peer
reviews on time. I felt like I could never rely on someone else helping me or peer reviewing as it was
always late.

Course Goals

My goal for this semester was to become a stronger writer and better peer reviewer. I believe that I did
improve with my writing. I feel that I improved because any assignment I attempt, and I edit to make
better, I felt made me a stronger writer. I also felt that the discussion boards forced me to communicate
about a subject I wanted to be stronger in (writing), and I wanted to prove myself. I believe I did become
a better peer reviewer as well. Most of the assignments, if not all, required peer reviewing multiple
people, and I think that was very helpful. Peer reviewing different topics and writing styles not only
helped me with basic reviewing and editing, but also identifying different writing styles. I enjoyed peer
reviewing as I felt like all of the peer reviews I received were honest. I typically have an idea when I need
to improve something, or when it may be wrong but I’m not sure, and when the person peer reviewing
me catches it, it makes me feel like the reader is honest. I feel as if there needs to be more pressure to
peer review papers in a timely manner, or more time for them to be done in between the due date for
the final draft. I understand that this suggestion is difficult in a short session class, I just found that I
didn’t get peer reviews in time before I had to either work on my final draft or submit it.

Assignments

I am most proud of my white paper assignment because of the work I put into it. I felt like I did a great
amount of research for it, and even though I could only include a specific amount of stuff, I still learned a
lot more about the topic in general. If I could add any assignment to this course, I would add something
relating to real-world emails or resumes. I find myself often having to send emails to professors or
potential workplaces, and I don’t have a long list of people to recommend me, therefore I think
communication is key.