Gantt Chart

What is it?
A gantt chart is a horizontal bar chart that stretches over a timeline to show scheduled and completed work. It is a very useful tool in work that involves groups because it is a visual display of tasks that have to be completed over a specific period of time. The visual representation of the duration, that can be set, and the order of tasks allows us to see clearly what work needs to be done first and the time scale that is allocated.

A gantt chart can possibly speed things up in a group work, as we can determine which work can be done simultaneously. For example, in a house-building stimulation that we carried out in class today, we found that plumbing a house, which requires 2 weeks, and fixing the electrics, which also takes 2 weeks can be done simultaneously, meaning we only 2 weeks to complete both at the same time- otherwise, separating the task will take 4 weeks. This shows that the gantt chart helps us to plan our group tasks so that we can effectively complete it in the shortest time possible.

Tips on using Gantt Chart

• Before constructing one, list down the tasks. Then, you can see clearly and decide which has to be done first.
• Notice that some of the work can be done simultaneously, so overlap the tasks to save time.
• Colour code the tasks to distinguish who does what
• Give a reasonable time scale for your tasks
• If you've finished your task way ahead of the deadline, you can refer to the Gantt chart to see what other tasks you can help with.

Busy week Reflection

It was a pretty busy week for me on-and-off GP class. The main thing we focused on this week is planning for our video. This includes the information needed to support our argument, our video script/plan and video footages we want to record. Our focus on our video is centred on political, social and economical; we think it's suitable to integrate them together because they are related one way or another. At first, we decided to produce a documentary- literally, a long documentary- with lots of facts and figures, but after much deliberation that might not be interesting and viable. So, we came up with the idea of a mockumentary, inspired by Nigahiga, which is more appealing to our audience, which consists of school students.

As usual, we allocate roles to group members to work more efficiently. Our brainstorming session for ideas are very successful because each of us gave creative ideas on how to make our video more engaging- and funny! After all, nobody wants to watch a dull and boring 15-minute video with a solemn pace and tone. Communication skills were vital in this process as it determines whether we are brave in conveying our ideas or not- in our case, we did not shy away from giving ideas so as a whole, we were good contributors.

This video planning process really stimulated creative thinking. It really tested our multimedia skills and imagination. From a contentious and rather solemn subject, we manage to transform it into something more approachable, understandable, fun and appealing.

FIshbone Diagram

Our Summary of the Peak Oil Debate

Mock Group Project Reflection

1. What was the key focus of this learning opportunity? This learning opportunity provided us with the chance to understand the peak oil debate and the issues surrounding this contentious topic by reading articles and watching videos on peak oil. Then, we had to produce a fishbone diagram to summarize and display our findings. Aside from that, this mock project also gave me a chance to communicate with my other teammates and improve our teamwork.

2. How did you work as a group? 

 a. Did you allocate specific roles?  Why?  How?

For the fishbone diagram, we divided it into 4 sections- personal, national, global and the future. Each of us, and also in pairs, are responsible to complete each respective view. For example, Carlos summarized information on the views of the future as he is interested in that particular section, and Azzah was responsible for global views.  It is important to divide the workload so that we can work more efficiently. After all, that's the whole point of group work. 

 b. Did everyone work well?  Why or why not?  Give examples.

As a group, I think we worked really smoothly. Before any decision is made, we'd definitely make discussions to share our views. Then only it's carried out. For example, we sat down and discussed about the format, structure and contents of the fishbone diagram beforehand. We weren't afraid to exchange views about the peak oil debate and also state our personal opinions. We also offered help to each other, like a well-oiled machine. 

 c. Do you think you worked as a team?  Why or why not?

Yes, I believe I've demonstrated teamwork as I am a team player. I took care to take everyone's ideas into consideration before proceeding to the next level. I also tried to include everyone into our discussions to ensure that everyone is involved actively.
    

 d. Did you achieve your group success criteria?  Why or why not?

Our group managed to complete what we set out to do- we understood the principles behind the peak oil debate and also used our summarizing skills to produce a concise yet informative fishbone diagram.

3. What could your group have done to develop your teamwork skills?

Of course, teamwork skills can always be enhanced. This includes talking more to each other and more importantly listening to each other- which was exactly what we did. I am very satisfied with how my team worked together so on the whole, I believe we are fine.

4. What did you learn from this learning opportunity?  This may be about the topic, or about yourself as a learner.
Through this learning opportunity, I became more exposed to the global issue of peak oil. I got to know better about the roles that oil play in our world, its importance and how life-changing it could be if it runs out one day. I also considered the possible scenarios in the future and how my country Malaysia is dealing with it.
 

5. What value did this learning have?  How does/could/can it impact on how you live your life?

Obviously, I became more aware of the problem of depleting oil. I now begin to monitor how I use oil in my daily life and also start to consider what impact it will have on me when it runs out, which includes price increase, shortage of food, inflation, riots, etc.

6. What could you do to improve your learning?
I could do more research by watching videos on YouTube of experts debating about the issue.