Letter of Transmittal

3rd October 2016 

Brad Blackstone

Director of SIE 2016 module

Singapore Institute of Technology

SIT @ Dover

10 Dover Drive

Singapore 138683

Acknowledgement to Letter of Authorization

Dear Mr. Blackstone,

In response to your letter, I, Jerry Leong, on behalf of my groupmates, gladly acknowledge your authorization by considering the problems faced in the utility and sustainable infrastructure industry.

At this moment, the team is considering how to prepare SIT for potential power outage outbreaks, which the team is anticipating in SIT’s new mega campus in Punggol, because of the increased in demand of electrical energy usage.

The team will conduct research with people in the relevant industries to justify for the proposal as we wait for your approval.

With Regards,

Jerry Leong (Team Leader)

On Behalf of Team Fudge

- Commented on Ike's Letter of Transmittal

Problem & Purpose Statement

Problem statement

The effects of blackout due to power grid failure can be real concern to SIT’s new campus. Hence, there is a need to find a way to tackle this issue and ensure that electricity is constantly supplied to the facilities, benefiting future SITizens.

Purpose statement

The purpose of this report is to propose the installation of Stand-alone photo-voltaic system in the common areas located at campus heart in the new centralized campus in Punggol. The proposal will provide an alternative source of energy apart from the existing power grid as the system can operate with just the solar energy generated alone.

Reader Response Final Draft

In the article, "This Detroit House Is Being Turned Into A Living Model Of Cost-Saving Sustainable Design”, Peters (2016), introduced us to a project titled “Motown Movement”, for which three architecture students purchased a house and converted it into a sustainable cost-efficient living model in Detroit. Their aim was to achieve sustainability through cost-efficient approach by transforming old houses into affordable and sustainable buildings. In their house, the lower level will be a “training centre” while the upper level houses a family in need. In-house systems includes solar panels, a “greywater system” and a “septic tank” as sources of renewable energy. Lukkes, one of the three students, stated that through collaboration with their university, they can ensure that their project can become universal and reach other countries. In my opinion, the students have a practical idea in implementing these changes within the Detroit community, yet these changes may be too ambitious due to the capital needed. 

The ideas the students came up with for the project are practical since it utilizes various natural sources of such as sunlight and rainwater which could be further tapped into. Sunlight can be converted into solar energy and rainwater could be collected. Thus, it is practical and easy to sustain. The septic tank and connection of the house to waste heat from nearby industry are also practical since the systems convert waste into productive materials. 

Although the implementation of the solar panels may seem practical, the cost for each panel does not come cheap. The initial capital needed for the solar panels would cost an enormous amount. For example, a 5-kilowatt rooftop solar installation from “Srinergy”, a program formed by the partnership between MI Solar Works and Novi Solar, costs $14,800(CBS Detroit, 2013). The installation cost is definitely not cheap, but in the long run, it reduces the monthly electric bill. It has a life span of 25 to 30 years. However, the beauty of the roofs will be damaged since the solar panels spoil the outlook of the roofs. According to Sortfix (2016), an average septic tank installation cost around $5,170. The septic tanks should be placed at suitable locations. Environmental impacts such as odour and gas emissions as well as groundwater pollution may occur if placed at unsuitable conditions (Wikipedia, 2016). Therefore, the students should survey the cheapest yet reliable manufacturers which builds these systems. 

Investors will create jobs for the community residing there if they invest in Detroit since it spans over 139 square miles. Cox, (2016) Detroit's chief city planner mentions that necessity supplies such as water, electricity and police protection will be applicable to all neighbourhoods. However, all these necessities need finances to thrive. Vacant houses also pose a problem. Hendrickx, one of the students from the project, said vacant houses will be set on fire by neighbours next door. Thus, people will be afraid to reside in Detroit due to the instability of the situation.

Ultimately, the most important factor in ensuring this project becomes successful is for financial help for the Detroit community. Investors could use this opportunity to invest in this project to create more jobs for the residents. This project could come a long way in being an inspiration for other countries to follow suit in increasing awareness about sustainability and reducing environmental impacts on a global scale. 

References

CBS Detroit. (2013). New Low-Cost Residential Solar Power Available.

Retrieved from http://detroit.cbslocal.com/2013/09/23/new-low-cost-residential-solar-power-available/

Klinefelter, Q. (2016). Must Detroit Shrink to Survive? 

Retrieved from http://wdet.org/posts/2016/08/15/83707-must-detroit-shrink-to-survive/

Michael D. S. (2006). What A Waste: Septic Tanks And Their Environmental Problems.

Retrieved from https://www.gasdetection.com/interscan-in-the-news/magazine-articles/waste-septic-tanks-environmental-problems/

Peters, A. (2016). This Detroit House Is Being Turned Into A Living Model Of Cost-Saving Sustainable Design. World Changing Ideas. 

Retrieved from https://www.fastcoexist.com/3061563/world-changing-ideas/this-detroit-house-is-being-turned-into-a-living-model-of-cost-saving-s

Sortfix. (2016). Low Cost Septic Tank Installation in Detroit, Michigan.

Retrieved from http://www.sortfix.com/septic-tank-installation/mi/detroit.php

Wikipedia. (2016). Environmental Concerns of Septic Tanks. 

Retrieved from https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Septic_tank 

Critical Reflection

Throughout this effective communication module, I found out that there are various skills required to be an effective communicator. In the first week, each of us were asked if we had any problems speaking in public. In the first week, Brad gave us a task which was to mingle with our new classmates. It was fun as we got to know each other better. 

From then on, we were given various tasks which required intensive writing and giving oral presentations. Initially, my writing was rusty due to a hiatus of not writing. The first task was writing a summary of an article.  I didn't know that writing a summary could be that hard. After that, we had to write a reader's response. Over the weeks, I managed to grasp a lot of writing techniques as well as learning a different style of writing which was the APA style.

Previously, I did not know there were various styles of writing but Brad really exposed us to these new styles which was very interesting.  Brad also took great effort to educate us in using proper language, verb tenses and transitional words. On top of that, we also had to send formal emails to communicate with a client for our report. This gave us great exposure to effectively communicate with real clients in the future.

We had group discussions and had to present our ideas to one another. This encouraged us to work with different people and will prepare us for the work environment in the future. The formal presentation was certainly one of the best takeaways for me. Presenting with a new style broadens my mind and I get to try out new presentation styles as well. 

Nevertheless, all good times will come to an end. This module has indeed been very fulfilling and satisfying. I would like to thank Brad and my classmates for making the class environment conducive and fun. I hope to apply the knowledge gained in the near future.

- Commented on Ming Kang's Critical Reflection on 9 December
- Commented on Ali's Critical Reflection on 9 December   

Analytical Reflection

Public speaking requires a lot of confidence and is a concern to many people. It’s been one of my concern until now. 

My group was scheduled to present on day 2. After seeing the first few groups presenting, I knew there were higher expectations from Brad. On the day of presentation, I felt anxious and nervous.

During my delivery, I used a different method which was to interact with the audience. This approach boosted my confidence. However, in the middle of the presentation, I started stuttering, lost my flow of thoughts and confidence. To counter this, I took a deep breath to compose myself.

The slide designs had a lot of visuals to enable the audience to visualize our solution. This was different from my previous presentations since there were lesser words to refer to on the slides. Thus, I had to adapt to not reading words off the slides. I felt that our presentation slides were just sufficient and not too lengthy. However, in the presentation slides, we had some visuals which covered the words. This could be improved by putting the visual on another slide instead. 

During the Questions & Answers session, I had some trouble answering questions and required my team to back me up. I feel that I could improve in handling questions by making sure I am well-read of my project. 

There are several areas I will need to improve on. One of them is organising my thoughts to clearly engage the audience and make them understand my presentation better. In addition to that, I must be more expressive, smile more at the appropriate times as well as projecting my voice louder for better clarity.

- Commented on Masyita's Analytical Reflection on 9 December
- Commented on Danish's Analytical Reflection on 9 December
- Commented on Iskandar's Analytical Reflection on 9 December

Summary & Readers Response Draft #3

In the article, "This Detroit House Is Being Turned Into A Living Model Of Cost-Saving Sustainable Design”, Peters (2016), introduced us to a project titled “Motown Movement”, whereby three students purchased a house and converted it into a sustainable cost-efficient living model in Detroit. Their aim was to achieve sustainability through cost-efficient approach by transforming run-down houses into affordable and sustainable buildings. In their house, the lower level will be a “training centre” while the upper level houses a family in need. In-house systems includes solar panels, a “greywater system” and a “septic tank” as sources of renewable energy. Lukkes, one of the three students, stated that through collaboration with their university, they can ensure that their project can become universal and reach other countries. In my opinion, the students have a practical idea in implementing these changes within the Detroit community, yet these changes may be too ambitious due to the social impact and capital needed. 

The ideas the students came up with for the project are practical since it utilizes various sources of such as sunlight and rain. Both are natural sources which could be further tapped into and used. Sunlight can be converted into solar energy and rainwater could be collected. Thus, it is practical and easy to sustain. The septic tank and connection of the house to waste heat from nearby industry are also practical since the systems convert waste into productive materials. 

Although the implementation of the solar panels may seem practical, the cost for each panel does not come cheap. The initial capital needed for the solar panels would cost an enormous amount. For example, a 5-kilowatt rooftop solar installation from “Srinergy”, a program formed by the partnership between MI Solar Works and Novi Solar, costs $14,800(CBS Detroit, 2013). The installation cost is definitely not cheap, but in the long run, it reduces the monthly electric bill. It has a life span of 25 to 30 years. However, the beauty of the roofs are affected since the solar panels spoil the outlook of the roofs. An average septic tank installation cost around $5,170(Sortfix, 2016). The septic tanks have to be placed at suitable locations. Environmental impacts such as odour and gas emissions as well as groundwater pollution may occur if placed at unsuitable conditions (Wikipedia, 2016). Therefore, the students will really have to survey and place the septic tank at proper locations. If not, they would cause more damage than benefits to the environment.  

Since Detroit spans over 139 square miles and being a large area, investors tend to be attracted to place their investments due to the vast land available. Cox,(Wdet, 2016) Detroit's chief city planner, mentions that necessity supplies such as water, electricity and police protection will be applicable to all neighbourhoods. However, all this necessities need finances to thrive. Vacant houses also pose a problem. Hendrickx, one of the students, said vacant houses will be set on fire by neighbours next door. 

On the other hand, the Detroit residents’ mindsets are positive. They could accomplish a lot of things since they already have a positive and optimistic mindset. They can assist in the project by coaching and teaching their skills to other people due to their 'never give-up' attitude. Ultimately, the most important factor in ensuring this project becomes successful is for the government to help out the Detroit community in terms of financial issues. This project could come a long way in increasing awareness to the governments in other countries about sustainability and reducing environmental impacts on a global scale. 

References

CBS Detroit. (2013). New Low-Cost Residential Solar Power Available.

Retrieved from http://detroit.cbslocal.com/2013/09/23/new-low-cost-residential-solar-power-available/

Klinefelter, Q. (2016). Must Detroit Shrink to Survive? 

Retrieved from http://wdet.org/posts/2016/08/15/83707-must-detroit-shrink-to-survive/

Michael D. Shaw. (2006). What A Waste: Septic Tanks And Their Environmental Problems.

Retrieved from https://www.gasdetection.com/interscan-in-the-news/magazine-articles/waste-septic-tanks-environmental-problems/

Peters, A. (2016). This Detroit House Is Being Turned Into A Living Model Of Cost-Saving Sustainable Design. World Changing Ideas. 

Retrieved from https://www.fastcoexist.com/3061563/world-changing-ideas/this-detroit-house-is-being-turned-into-a-living-model-of-cost-saving-s

Sortfix. (2016). Low Cost Septic Tank Installation in Detroit, Michigan.

Retrieved from http://www.sortfix.com/septic-tank-installation/mi/detroit.php

Wikipedia. (2016). Environmental Concerns of Septic Tanks. 

Retrieved from https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Septic_tank 

Summary & Reader Response Draft #2

In the article, "This Detroit House Is Being Turned Into A Living Model Of Cost-Saving Sustainable Design”, Peters (2016), linked us with a project titled “Motown Movement”, whereby three students purchased a house and converted it into a sustainable cost-efficient living model in Detroit. Their aim was to achieve sustainability through cost-efficient approach by transforming run-down houses into affordable and sustainable buildings. In their house, the lower level will be a “training centre” while the upper level houses a family in need. In-house systems includes solar panels, a “greywater system” and a “septic tank” as sources of renewable energy. Lukkes, one of the three students, stated that through collaboration with their university, they can ensure that their project can become universal and reach other countries. In my opinion, the students have a practical idea in implementing these changes to the Detroit community, yet these changes may be too ambitious due to the social impact and capital needed. 

The ideas the students came up with for the project are practical since it utilizes various sources of such as sunlight and rain. Both are natural sources which could be further tapped into and used. Sunlight can be converted into solar energy and rainwater could be collected. Thus, it is practical and easy to sustain. The septic tank and connection of the house to waste heat from nearby industry are also practical since it reuses waste into productive materials. 

Although the implementation of the solar panels may seem practical, the cost for each panel does not come cheap. The initial capital needed for the solar panels would cost an enormous amount. For example, a 5-kilowatt rooftop solar installation from “Srinergy”, a program formed by the partnership between MI Solar Works and Novi Solar, costs $14,800(CBS Detroit, 2013). The installation cost is definitely not cheap, but in the long run, it reduces the monthly electric bill by $75. It has a life span of 25 to 30 years. However, the beauty of the roofs are affected since the solar panels spoil the outlook of the roofs. An average septic tank installation cost around $5,170(Sortfix,2016). The septic tanks have to be placed at suitable locations. Environmental impacts such as odour and gas emissions as well as groundwater pollution may occur if placed at unsuitable conditions. Therefore, the students will really have to research and place the septic tank at proper locations. If not, they would cause more damage than benefits to the environment (Wikipedia, 2016). 

Although this project aims to benefit the community in Detroit, it might pose a few social problems. For example, once the house is already built and given to the needy, those who did not get the house may want to take it away for self-interest purposes. Due to the high crime rate and poverty in Detroit, I would suggest more police presence around the area to make the area safer.

On the other hand, the Detroit residents’ mindsets are positive. They could accomplish a lot of things by having a positive and optimistic mind. With the never give up attitude and being handy in their skills, they can assist in the project by coaching and teaching other people. Ultimately, the most important factor in ensuring this project becomes successful is to help out in terms of financial issues. This project could come a long way in increasing awareness to other countries about sustainability and reducing environmental impacts.

References

CBS Detroit.(2013, 23 September) New Low-Cost Residential Solar Power Available .

Retrieved from http://detroit.cbslocal.com/2013/09/23/new-low-cost-residential-solar-power-available/

Environmental Concerns of Septic Tanks (2016, 07 September). 

Retrieved from https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Septic_tank 

Low Cost Septic Tank Installation in Detroit, MI (2016).
Retrieved from http://www.sortfix.com/septic-tank-installation/mi/detroit.php

Michael D. Shaw. (2006, 18 September) What A Waste: Septic Tanks And Their Environmental Problems.
Retrieved from https://www.gasdetection.com/interscan-in-the-news/magazine-articles/waste-septic-tanks-environmental-problems/

Peters, A. (2016, July 7). This Detroit House Is Being Turned Into A Living Model Of Cost-Saving Sustainable Design. World Changing Ideas. 

Retrieved from https://www.fastcoexist.com/3061563/world-changing-ideas/this-detroit-house-is-being-turned-into-a-living-model-of-cost-saving-s

Summary & Reader Response Draft #1

In the article, “This Detroit House Is Being Turned Into A Living Model Of Cost-Saving Sustainable Design”, Peters (2016), 3 architecture students through their project, “Motown Movement” purchased a house in Detroit. Their aim was to achieve sustainability through cost-efficient approach by transforming run-down houses into affordable and sustainable buildings. In their house, the lower level will be a “training centre” while the upper level houses a family in need. In-house systems includes solar panels, a “greywater system” and a “septic tank” as sources of renewable energy. Lukkes, one of the 3 students, hoped that through collaboration with their university, they can ensure that their project can become universal and reach other countries. In my opinion, the students have a practical idea in implementing these changes to the Detroit community, yet these changes may be too ambitious due to the social impact and capital needed. 

The ideas the students came up with for the project are practical. This project is practical since it utilizes solar energy and collects rain for multiple functions. Sunlight and rain are natural sources which could be further tapped into and used. Collecting rainwater is still practical and easy to sustain. The septic tank converts waste into bio-gas and fertilizers. They also plan to connect the house to waste heat from nearby industry.

Although the implementation of the solar panels may seem practical, the cost for each panel does not come cheap. The initial capital needed for the solar panels would cost an enormous amount. For example, a 5-kilowatt rooftop solar installation from “Srinergy”, a program formed by the partnership between MI Solar Works and Novi Solar, costs $14,800. The installation cost is definitely not cheap, but in the long run, it reduces the monthly electric bill by $75. It has a life span of 25 to 30 years. However, the beauty of the roofs are affected since the solar panels spoil the outlook of the roofs. An average septic tank installation cost around $5,170. The septic tanks have to be place at suitable locations. Environmental impacts such as odor and gas emissions as well as groundwater pollution may occur if placed at unsuitable conditions. Therefore, the students will really have to research and place the septic tank at proper locations. If not, they would cause more damage than benefits to the environment.  

Although this project aims to benefit the community in Detroit, it might pose a few social problems. For example, once the house is already built and given to the needy, those who did not get the house may want to take it away for self-interest purposes. Due to the high crime rate and poverty in Detroit, I would suggest more police presence around the area to make the area safer.

On the other hand, the Detroit residents’ mindsets are positive. They could accomplish a lot of things by having a positive and optimistic mind. With the never give up attitude and being handy in their skills, they can assist in the project by coaching and teaching other people.

Ultimately, the most important factor in ensuring this project becomes successful is to help out in terms of financial issues. This project could come a long way in increasing awareness to other countries about sustainability and reducing environmental impacts.

References

1.    Peters, A. (2016, July 7). This Detroit House Is Being Turned Into A Living Model Of Cost-Saving Sustainable Design. World Changing Ideas. Retrieved from https://www.fastcoexist.com/3061563/world-changing-ideas/this-detroit-house-is-being-turned-into-a-living-model-of-cost-saving-s

2.    New Low-Cost Residential Solar Power Available (2013, 23 September).
Retrieved from http://detroit.cbslocal.com/2013/09/23/new-low-cost-residential-solar-power-available/

3.    Low Cost Septic Tank Installation in Detroit, MI (2016).

      Retrieved from http://www.sortfix.com/septic-tank-installation/mi/detroit.php

4.    Environmental Concerns of Septic Tanks (2016, 07 September).
Retrieved from https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Septic_tank 

5.    Michael D. Shaw. (2006, 18 September) What A Waste: Septic Tanks And Their Environmental Problems.
Retrieved from https://www.gasdetection.com/interscan-in-the-news/magazine-articles/waste-septic-tanks-environmental-problems/

Areas For Improvement In This Trimester

The key 3 areas I need improvement in this trimester are as follows:

1) Concise and Clear sentences
2) Verb Tense Usage
3) Sentence Structure

Summary & Thesis Draft

In the article, “This Detroit House Is Being Turned Into A Living Model Of Cost-Saving Sustainable Design”, Peters (2016), 3 architecture students through their project, “Motown Movement” purchased a house in Detroit. Their aim was to achieve sustainability through cost-efficient approach by transforming broken-down houses into affordable and sustainable buildings. In their house, the lower level will be a “training centre” while the upper level houses a family in need. In-house systems includes solar panels, a “greywater system” and a “septic tank” as sources of renewable energy. Lukkes, one of the 3 students, hoped that through collaboration with their university, they can ensure that their project can become universal and reach other countries. In my opinion, the students have a practical idea in implementing these changes to the Detroit community, yet these changes are too ambitious.

References

Peters, A. (2016, July 7). This Detroit House Is Being Turned Into A Living Model Of Cost-Saving Sustainable Design. World Changing Ideas. Retrieved from https://www.fastcoexist.com/3061563/world-changing-ideas/this-detroit-house-is-being-turned-into-a-living-model-of-cost-saving-s

Formal Letter

To: Mr. Brad Blackstone

From: Mohamed Akmal

Date: September 10, 2016

Subject: Self-introduction of Akmal

Dear Brad,

I am Mohamed Akmal Akashah studying Sustainable Infrastructure Engineering (Building Services). Previously, I was from Clean Energy Diploma Course in Singapore Polytechnic. I have an interest in sports, music and martial arts. My goal during my stint here in SIT is learn to build environmentally friendly buildings. In the future, I aim to be an all rounded professional engineer, designing buildings which will benefit clients in terms of cost and energy efficiency.

Regards,
Akmal
SIE 2016
Group 1

-Commented on Ahmad Naqeef's formal letter on 15/09/2016
-Commented on Masyita's formal letter on 15/09/2016
-Revised on 21/09/2016

The Importance Of English

English language has been around for centuries and now, it is a language to communicate for many people around the world. Throughout my journey in learning English, the most important step for me was to firstly communicate in English. Since, I was not from an English speaking background, it was quite intimidating to communicate with other people. Foundation is important in any aspects.

My English journey started when I was young. The very first English lesson was during my kindergarten period. It was there when the teachers would teach us the basics of pronunciation of words, using pictures to help us better understand, phonics and also repetitive practice. At that point in time, it did not seem too appealing to me.

However, as everyone else was trying to learn the language, I was also forced to learn it too. In addition to that, the only way to get to know one another person from a different race was to converse in English. Teachers will only converse to us in English throughout lessons. Whenever we communicated with one another in a different language, they would coax and persuade us to not be afraid in communicating in English.

Looking back, I am happy to have been pushed to learn English since young. Being able to understand, listen and communicate in English with other people is an accomplishment to me. The basic foundations are very important for any aspects. Take for example, a building. It needs to have strong foundations in order to keep the building stable. Therefore, learning English is not a topic I fancy when young but I am appreciating it as I grow older.

As I grew older, English is a much needed tool for communicating with others. It has definitely been easier to communicate with others as my command in English is already stable. At my previous work place, the common language we mostly used was English. English is ingrained in my life now and is applicable in everyday life.

-Revised on 15/09/2016
-Commented on Danish's blog on 15/09/2016.
-Revised on 21/09/2016

The Purpose

Hi all!

This blog is created for the purpose of reflecting, analysing, learning and unlearning the various types of ways for effective communication. There will be different range of topics throughout this space. Feedback and comments are much appreciated. 

Thanks! 

-Akmal