Reflection Paper 3: Research Proposal

CONTEXT

Last December 5 to 7, we had our research paper proposal, during which each group delivered a 10-minute presentation about their paper and addressed any questions or clarifications posed by the panelists. Afterwhich, each group took note of the suggestions from the panelists and edited their papers accordingly. As a medical student, this research experience was pivotal in my academic journey. It not only challenged my knowledge and understanding of my own research but also allowed me to hone crucial skills. Consequently, the research proposal successfully achieved the following objectives: effective communication (PO2), engagement in research activities (PO4), participation in continuing personal and professional development (PO7), and adherence to ethical and professional standards (PO8).

EXPERIENCE

Preparing for the research proposal was definitely nerve-wracking. Our group met with our mentor multiple times, brainstorming as many possible questions and preparing detailed answers about our study. We meticulously reviewed our paper, making changes to any contradictory or confusing statements in advance. Despite our thorough preparation, we all still felt nervous. To our surprise, however, the panelists complimented our paper as the best-written manuscript. It was a shocking yet happy moment for the group, as our combined efforts yielded such a positive result.

Throughout our pre-proposal preparation and actual presentation, it required the integration of diverse skills and competencies that contributed to achieving specific program outcomes. Firstly, in presenting our paper, I tried my best to clearly convey the research objectives, methodologies, and other key details to the panel (PO2). Secondly, while creating our paper, my groupmates and I were able to research existing literature, theories, and gaps related to our study (PO4). This phase not only enhanced my research skills but also deepened my appreciation for the intricacies of academic inquiry. Thirdly, the research proposal as a whole was a valuable learning opportunity for me. Engaging in discussions with peers and mentors and researching various previous literature motivated me to continually strive for learning, especially in the field of research wherein exploring new perspectives, methodologies, and technologies could significantly enhance my academic and professional growth (PO7). Lastly, a key goal of the research proposal was to ensure that each study meets ethical and professional standards. The group took these considerations to mind and made sure that our study design, data collection, and overall research adhered to these established guidelines (PO8).

REFLECTION:

The research proposal was a great opportunity for me to grow as a person as well as a student. Firstly, it required me to confront my fear of public speaking and develop my ability to convey complex ideas clearly. Through this experience, the proposal helped me refine my presentation skills, organize my thoughts coherently, and ensure that the message was understood by everyone. Secondly, I learned that engaging in research activities is no easy task for me. I struggled with being able to navigate scholarly literature, critically assess each one, and formulate a research that is both methodologically sound and innovative with my groupmates. However, this hands-on experience with the research process has definitely helped me improve my research skills. Thirdly, I realized that research is not merely an activity done for the sake of academic compliance but a means to develop personal and professional growth, especially since it is a dynamic and constantly evolving field. Engaging with the research process has challenged me to think critically, ask pertinent questions, be more proactive, and commit to lifelong learning. Lastly, I learned the importance of being meticulous and detail-oriented in research. The panelists during the proposal were straightforward with their concerns about our studies. Their constructive criticism helped each group identify areas of improvement and loopholes in their studies. With this experience, I realized that ethical and professional considerations are not mere checkboxes in the research process. They are integral components that contribute to the credibility and trustworthiness of research findings, as well as help students learn values that will aid in the development of their professional identities.

ACTION:

First, in order to overcome my fear of public speaking, I plan to address this weakness by attending public speaking workshops, watching tutorial videos for tips, and joining online platforms that offer public speaking training. Additionally, I intend to volunteer more often for presentations in various school activities. This approach will not only enhance my presentation skills but also boost my confidence in conveying complex ideas to diverse audiences. Second, in order to improve my research skills, I plan on making it a goal to attend relevant conferences, workshops, and webinars on research and research writing. I also plan to seek more opportunities to collaborate with my peers on different research activities and expose myself to more research methodologies. Third, in terms of my commitment to lifelong learning, I plan to create monthly research goals that will help me engage in more research activities, such as attending one online webinar or reading one academic article every month. Lastly, to ensure that our study complies with the different standards, I plan on being meticulous in checking our paper, making sure that I fully understand the ethical and professional guidelines and standards. I can also consult our mentor for guidance and review.

EVALUATION:

In conclusion, our research proposal presentation was a success. The most noteworthy occurrence was when my group was awarded 1st place out of all the presentations. I am immensely proud of how far my group has come and how much we have improved since we first started our research. Personally, I still feel that I could have conveyed my thoughts better during the proposal, particularly during the question and answer portion with the panelists. However, I also recognize that my strengths were evident when it came to organization and attention to detail while reading our manuscript. As I continue my academic journey, I strive to keep my mind and heart open to the many things I have yet to learn from the dynamic field of research, focusing on developing my skills in critical thinking and striving to meaningfully contribute to the field of medicine.