Discussion #4

Over the past few months, my ability to work with others in small groups has improved immensely. For Physics 2300, the homework is much more difficult than any of my previous physics classes. As a result, most of the students work on it together to make finishing the homework possible. I am a part of several study and homework groups for Physics 2300, and they have been invaluable for helping me get through the class. In previous physics classes, I was able to complete the homework on my own, but without working with other students, I would no be able to complete the homework for 2300. Working in these groups is always a balance between helping others and getting helped and I have become much better at achieving a good balance when working collaboratively. Talking to other students in the class and students who took the class in previous semesters has helped me to realize that without collaborating, almost no one is able to pass Physics 2300. I think that building these group work skills will help me in future classes and in research groups.

Through the rest of my undergraduate experience, in addition to refining my ability to work well with others I would like to improve my time management skills. I still struggle with procrastination, and while I have yet to stay up all night because of excessive procrastination, I have had some uncomfortably rushed assignments. I would like to get better at managing my time in order to avoid turning in rushed assignments which could negatively affect my grades.