tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-24989930952373311862024-03-08T00:49:47.344-08:00The Learning Journey (Effective Communication)akmalakashahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13931126181787301712noreply@blogger.comBlogger13125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2498993095237331186.post-27088544614176180262016-12-09T10:45:00.001-08:002016-12-09T11:27:42.193-08:00Letter of Transmittal<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: 150%; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; font-family: "cambria" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 150%;">3rd October 2016</span><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "cambria" , serif; font-size: 12pt;"> </span></div>
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<span style="color: #222222; font-family: "cambria" , serif; font-size: 12pt;">Brad Blackstone</span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "cambria" , serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 150%;">Director of SIE 2016 module</span><span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; font-family: "cambria" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 150%;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; font-family: "cambria" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 150%;">Singapore Institute of
Technology<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; font-family: "cambria" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 150%;">SIT @ Dover<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; font-family: "cambria" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 150%;">10 Dover Drive<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; font-family: "cambria" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 150%;">Singapore 138683<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<b><u><span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; font-family: "cambria" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 150%;">Acknowledgement to Letter
of Authorization</span></u></b><span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; font-family: "cambria" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 150%;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; font-family: "cambria" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 150%;">Dear Mr. Blackstone,<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; font-family: "cambria" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 150%;">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.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; font-family: "cambria" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 150%;">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. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; font-family: "cambria" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 150%;">The team will conduct
research with people in the relevant industries to justify for the proposal as
we wait for your approval.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; font-family: "cambria" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 150%;">With Regards,<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; font-family: "cambria" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 150%;">Jerry Leong (Team Leader)<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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</div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "cambria" , serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 150%;">On Behalf of Team Fudge</span><span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; font-family: "cambria" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 150%;"><o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "cambria" , serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 150%;"><br /></span>
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "cambria" , serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 150%;">- Commented on Ike's Letter of Transmittal</span></div>
akmalakashahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13931126181787301712noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2498993095237331186.post-36215390576016408702016-12-09T10:43:00.001-08:002016-12-09T11:10:56.778-08:00Problem & Purpose Statement<h1 style="line-height: 150%;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: inherit; font-size: 12.0pt; font-weight: normal; line-height: 150%;">Problem statement<o:p></o:p></span></h1>
<h3 style="line-height: 150%;">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: small; font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-US" style="line-height: 150%;">The effects of blackout due to power grid
failure can be real concern to SIT’s new campus. </span>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.</span></h3>
<h1 style="line-height: 150%;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12.0pt; font-weight: normal; line-height: 150%;">Purpose statement</span><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12.0pt; font-weight: normal; line-height: 150%;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></h1>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span>
<br />
<div style="line-height: 150%; margin-bottom: 8.0pt; margin-left: 0cm; margin-right: 0cm; margin-top: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "cambria" , serif;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">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.</span><span style="font-family: "cambria" , serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
akmalakashahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13931126181787301712noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2498993095237331186.post-69879049951979834722016-11-26T10:53:00.001-08:002016-11-26T10:53:47.965-08:00Reader Response Final Draft<div style="background: white; line-height: 115%; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
In the article, "<span style="color: #333333;">This
Detroit House Is Being Turned Into A Living Model Of Cost-Saving Sustainable
Design”, </span>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. <span style="color: #333333;">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. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="background: white; line-height: 115%; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div style="background: white; line-height: 115%; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<span style="color: #333333;">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. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="background: white; line-height: 115%; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div style="background: white; line-height: 115%; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<span style="color: #333333;">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.
<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="background: white; line-height: 115%; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div style="background: white; line-height: 115%; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<span style="color: #333333;">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. </span><o:p></o:p></div>
<div style="background: white; line-height: 115%; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div style="background: white; line-height: 115%; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<span style="color: #333333;">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. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
<div style="background: white; line-height: 115%; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<b><span style="color: #333333;">References</span></b><span style="color: #333333;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="background: white; line-height: 115%; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div style="background: white; line-height: 115%; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<span style="color: #333333; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold;">CBS Detroit. (2013). New
Low-Cost Residential Solar Power Available.</span><span style="color: #333333;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="background: white; line-height: 115%; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<span style="color: #333333;">Retrieved from </span><a href="http://detroit.cbslocal.com/2013/09/23/new-low-cost-residential-solar-power-available/"><span style="color: #771100; text-decoration: none;">http://detroit.cbslocal.com/2013/09/23/new-low-cost-residential-solar-power-available/</span></a><span style="color: #333333;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="background: white; line-height: 115%; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div style="background: white; line-height: 115%; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<span style="color: #333333; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold;">Klinefelter, Q. (2016). Must
Detroit Shrink to Survive? </span><span style="color: #333333;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="background: white; line-height: 115%; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<span style="color: #333333;">Retrieved from
http://wdet.org/posts/2016/08/15/83707-must-detroit-shrink-to-survive/</span><o:p></o:p></div>
<div style="background: white; line-height: 115%; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div style="background: white; line-height: 115%; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<span style="color: #333333; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold;">Michael D. S. (2006). What A
Waste: Septic Tanks And Their Environmental Problems.</span><span style="color: #333333;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="background: white; line-height: 115%; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<span style="color: #333333;">Retrieved from </span><a href="https://www.gasdetection.com/interscan-in-the-news/magazine-articles/waste-septic-tanks-environmental-problems/"><span style="color: #771100; text-decoration: none;">https://www.gasdetection.com/interscan-in-the-news/magazine-articles/waste-septic-tanks-environmental-problems/</span></a><span style="color: #333333;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="background: white; line-height: 115%; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div style="background: white; line-height: 115%; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<span style="color: #333333; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold;">Peters, A. (2016). This Detroit
House Is Being Turned Into A Living Model Of Cost-Saving Sustainable Design.
World Changing Ideas.</span><span style="color: #333333;"> <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="background: white; line-height: 115%; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<span style="color: #333333;">Retrieved from </span><a href="https://www.fastcoexist.com/3061563/world-changing-ideas/this-detroit-house-is-being-turned-into-a-living-model-of-cost-saving-s"><span style="color: #771100; text-decoration: none;">https://www.fastcoexist.com/3061563/world-changing-ideas/this-detroit-house-is-being-turned-into-a-living-model-of-cost-saving-s</span></a><span style="color: #333333;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="background: white; line-height: 115%; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div style="background: white; line-height: 115%; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<span style="color: #333333; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold;">Sortfix. (2016). Low Cost
Septic Tank Installation in Detroit, Michigan.</span><span style="color: #333333;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="background: white; line-height: 115%; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<span style="color: #333333;">Retrieved from </span><a href="http://www.sortfix.com/septic-tank-installation/mi/detroit.php"><span style="color: #771100; text-decoration: none;">http://www.sortfix.com/septic-tank-installation/mi/detroit.php</span></a><span style="color: #333333;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="background: white; line-height: 115%; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div style="background: white; line-height: 115%; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<span style="color: #333333; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold;">Wikipedia. (2016).
Environmental Concerns of Septic Tanks.<i> </i></span><span style="color: #333333;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="background: white; line-height: 115%; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<span style="color: #333333;">Retrieved from </span><a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Septic_tank"><span style="color: #771100; text-decoration: none;">https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Septic_tank</span></a><span style="color: #333333;"> <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
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<br /></div>
akmalakashahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13931126181787301712noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2498993095237331186.post-32739608887951221592016-11-26T10:51:00.000-08:002016-12-09T11:08:52.276-08:00Critical Reflection<div style="background: white; margin-left: .5in;">
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="color: #212121; font-family: "segoe ui" , sans-serif; font-size: 11.5pt;">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. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
</div>
<div style="background: white; margin-left: .5in;">
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="color: #212121; font-family: "segoe ui" , sans-serif; font-size: 11.5pt;"><br /></span></div>
</div>
<div style="background: white; margin-left: .5in;">
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="color: #212121; font-family: "segoe ui" , sans-serif; font-size: 11.5pt;">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. </span><span style="color: #212121; font-family: "segoe ui" , sans-serif; font-size: 15.3333px;"> </span><span style="color: #212121; font-family: "segoe ui" , sans-serif; font-size: 15.3333px;">I didn't know that writing a summary could be that hard.</span><span style="color: #212121; font-family: "segoe ui" , sans-serif; font-size: 15.3333px;"> </span><span style="color: #212121; font-family: "segoe ui" , sans-serif; font-size: 11.5pt;">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.</span></div>
</div>
<div style="background: white; margin-left: .5in;">
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="color: #212121; font-family: "segoe ui" , sans-serif; font-size: 11.5pt;"><br /></span></div>
</div>
<div style="background: white; margin-left: .5in;">
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="color: #212121; font-family: "segoe ui" , sans-serif; font-size: 11.5pt;">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. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
</div>
<div style="background: white; margin-left: .5in;">
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="color: #212121; font-family: "segoe ui" , sans-serif; font-size: 11.5pt;"><br /></span></div>
</div>
<div style="background: white; margin-left: .5in;">
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="color: #212121; font-family: "segoe ui" , sans-serif; font-size: 11.5pt;">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. </span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="color: #212121; font-family: "segoe ui" , sans-serif; font-size: 11.5pt;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="color: #212121; font-family: "segoe ui" , sans-serif; font-size: 11.5pt;">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.</span><br />
<span style="color: #212121; font-family: "segoe ui" , sans-serif; font-size: 11.5pt;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #212121; font-family: "segoe ui" , sans-serif; font-size: 11.5pt;">- Commented on Ming Kang's Critical Reflection on 9 December</span><br />
<span style="color: #212121; font-family: "segoe ui" , sans-serif; font-size: 11.5pt;">- Commented on Ali's Critical Reflection on 9 December</span><span style="color: #212121; font-family: "segoe ui", sans-serif; font-size: 11.5pt;"> </span></div>
</div>
akmalakashahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13931126181787301712noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2498993095237331186.post-52317463236160937642016-11-24T09:12:00.000-08:002016-12-09T11:19:06.434-08:00Analytical Reflection <div style="background: white; margin-left: .5in;">
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<div style="text-align: left;">
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<span style="border: 1pt none; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 11.5pt; padding: 0in;">Public speaking requires a lot
of confidence and is a concern to many people. It’s been one of my concern until now. </span><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 13.5pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<span style="border: 1pt none; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 11.5pt; padding: 0in;">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.</span><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 13.5pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<span style="color: #212121; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 11.5pt;">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.</span><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 13.5pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<span style="color: #212121; font-family: "segoe ui" , sans-serif; font-size: 11.5pt;">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. </span><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 13.5pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<span style="color: #212121; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 11.5pt;">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. </span><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 13.5pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<span style="color: #212121; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 11.5pt;">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.</span><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 13.5pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
- Commented on Masyita's Analytical Reflection on 9 December<br />
- Commented on Danish's Analytical Reflection on 9 December<br />
- Commented on Iskandar's Analytical Reflection on 9 December</div>
</div>
</div>
</div>
</div>
akmalakashahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13931126181787301712noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2498993095237331186.post-37183191641887604942016-10-05T02:52:00.004-07:002016-10-13T03:38:34.590-07:00Summary & Readers Response Draft #3<div style="background: white; line-height: 115%; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
In the article, "<span style="color: #333333;">This
Detroit House Is Being Turned Into A Living Model Of Cost-Saving Sustainable
Design”, </span>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. <span style="color: #333333;">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. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="background: white; line-height: 115%; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div style="background: white; line-height: 115%; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<span style="color: #333333;">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. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="background: white; line-height: 115%; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div style="background: white; line-height: 115%; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<span style="color: #333333;">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. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="background: white; line-height: 115%; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div style="background: white; line-height: 115%; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<span style="color: #333333;">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. </span><o:p></o:p></div>
<div style="background: white; line-height: 115%; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div style="background: white; line-height: 115%; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<span style="color: #333333;">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. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="background: white; line-height: 115%; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div style="background: white; line-height: 115%; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<b><span style="color: #333333;">References</span></b><span style="color: #333333;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="background: white; line-height: 115%; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div style="background: white; line-height: 115%; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<span style="color: #333333; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold;">CBS Detroit. (2013). New
Low-Cost Residential Solar Power Available.</span><span style="color: #333333;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="background: white; line-height: 115%; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<span style="color: #333333;">Retrieved from <a href="http://detroit.cbslocal.com/2013/09/23/new-low-cost-residential-solar-power-available/" style="color: #771100; line-height: 19.85pt; text-decoration: none; text-indent: -0.25in;"><span style="color: #771100; text-decoration: none; text-underline: none;">http://detroit.cbslocal.com/2013/09/23/new-low-cost-residential-solar-power-available/</span></a><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="background: white; line-height: 115%; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div style="background: white; line-height: 115%; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<span style="color: #333333; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold;">Klinefelter, Q. (2016). Must
Detroit Shrink to Survive? </span><span style="color: #333333;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="background: white; line-height: 115%; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<span style="color: #333333;">Retrieved from
http://wdet.org/posts/2016/08/15/83707-must-detroit-shrink-to-survive/</span><o:p></o:p></div>
<div style="background: white; line-height: 115%; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div style="background: white; line-height: 115%; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<span style="color: #333333; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold;">Michael D. Shaw. (2006). What A
Waste: Septic Tanks And Their Environmental Problems.</span><span style="color: #333333;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="background: white; line-height: 115%; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<span style="color: #333333;">Retrieved from <a href="https://www.gasdetection.com/interscan-in-the-news/magazine-articles/waste-septic-tanks-environmental-problems/" style="color: #771100; font-family: 'times new roman', serif; line-height: 17.12px; text-decoration: none; text-indent: -0.25in;"><span style="color: #771100; text-decoration: none; text-underline: none;">https://www.gasdetection.com/interscan-in-the-news/magazine-articles/waste-septic-tanks-environmental-problems/</span></a><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="background: white; line-height: 115%; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div style="background: white; line-height: 115%; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<span style="color: #333333; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold;">Peters, A. (2016). This Detroit
House Is Being Turned Into A Living Model Of Cost-Saving Sustainable Design.
World Changing Ideas.</span><span style="color: #333333;"> <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="background: white; line-height: 115%; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<span style="color: #333333;">Retrieved from <a href="https://www.fastcoexist.com/3061563/world-changing-ideas/this-detroit-house-is-being-turned-into-a-living-model-of-cost-saving-s" style="color: #771100; line-height: 19.85pt; text-decoration: none; text-indent: -0.25in;"><span style="color: #771100; text-decoration: none; text-underline: none;">https://www.fastcoexist.com/3061563/world-changing-ideas/this-detroit-house-is-being-turned-into-a-living-model-of-cost-saving-s</span></a><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="background: white; line-height: 115%; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div style="background: white; line-height: 115%; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<span style="color: #333333; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold;">Sortfix. (2016). Low Cost
Septic Tank Installation in Detroit, Michigan.</span><span style="color: #333333;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="background: white; line-height: 115%; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<span style="color: #333333;">Retrieved from <a href="http://www.sortfix.com/septic-tank-installation/mi/detroit.php" style="color: #771100; line-height: 19.85pt; text-decoration: none; text-indent: -0.25in;"><span style="color: #771100; text-decoration: none; text-underline: none;">http://www.sortfix.com/septic-tank-installation/mi/detroit.php</span></a><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="background: white; line-height: 115%; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div style="background: white; line-height: 115%; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<span style="color: #333333; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold;">Wikipedia. (2016).
Environmental Concerns of Septic Tanks.<i> </i></span><span style="color: #333333;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="background: white; line-height: 115%; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<span style="color: #333333;">Retrieved from <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Septic_tank" style="color: #771100; line-height: 17.12px; text-decoration: none; text-indent: -0.25in;"><span style="color: #771100; text-decoration: none; text-underline: none;">https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Septic_tank</span></a> <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 115%; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
akmalakashahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13931126181787301712noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2498993095237331186.post-29210926893218447242016-09-27T05:44:00.000-07:002016-10-03T07:02:57.550-07:00Summary & Reader Response Draft #2<div style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: arial, tahoma, helvetica, freesans, sans-serif; line-height: 1.656;">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="color: black; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">In the article, "</span><span style="vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">This Detroit House Is Being Turned Into A Living Model Of Cost-Saving Sustainable Design”,</span><span style="vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> </span><span style="color: black; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Peters (2016), </span></span><span style="color: black; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; line-height: 24.5916px; white-space: pre-wrap;">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.</span><span style="color: black; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; line-height: 1.656; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> 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. </span><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; line-height: 1.38;">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. </span></div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: arial, tahoma, helvetica, freesans, sans-serif; line-height: 1.656;">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: arial, tahoma, helvetica, freesans, sans-serif; line-height: 19.85pt; margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; line-height: 19.85pt;">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. </span></div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: arial, tahoma, helvetica, freesans, sans-serif; line-height: 19.85pt; margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; line-height: 19.85pt;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: arial, tahoma, helvetica, freesans, sans-serif; line-height: 19.85pt; margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">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 <span style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial;">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. </span>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). <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: arial, tahoma, helvetica, freesans, sans-serif; line-height: 19.85pt; margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt;">
<br /></div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: arial, tahoma, helvetica, freesans, sans-serif; line-height: 19.85pt; margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">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.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: arial, tahoma, helvetica, freesans, sans-serif; line-height: 19.85pt; margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt;">
<br /></div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: arial, tahoma, helvetica, freesans, sans-serif; line-height: 19.85pt; margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">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. </span><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; line-height: 19.85pt;">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.</span></div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: arial, tahoma, helvetica, freesans, sans-serif; line-height: 19.85pt; margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt;">
<br /></div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: arial, tahoma, helvetica, freesans, sans-serif; line-height: 19.85pt; margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt;">
<b><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">References</span></b></div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: arial, tahoma, helvetica, freesans, sans-serif; line-height: 19.85pt; margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt;">
<b style="line-height: 1.656; text-indent: -0.25in;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; line-height: 17.12px;"><span style="font-family: "times new roman"; font-stretch: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal;"><br /></span></span></b>
<br />
<div style="line-height: 19.85pt; margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt;">
<b style="line-height: 19.85pt; text-indent: -0.25in;">CBS Detroit.</b><b style="line-height: 19.85pt; text-indent: -0.25in;">(2013, 23 September) </b><b style="line-height: 19.85pt; text-indent: -0.25in;">New Low-Cost Residential Solar Power Available .</b></div>
<span style="line-height: 19.85pt; text-indent: -0.25in;">Retrieved from </span><span style="line-height: 19.85pt; text-indent: -0.25in;"><a href="http://detroit.cbslocal.com/2013/09/23/new-low-cost-residential-solar-power-available/" style="color: #771100; line-height: 19.85pt; text-decoration: none; text-indent: -0.25in;">http://detroit.cbslocal.com/2013/09/23/new-low-cost-residential-solar-power-available/</a></span><br />
<b style="line-height: 1.656; text-indent: -0.25in;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; line-height: 17.12px;"><span style="font-family: "times new roman"; font-stretch: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal;"><br /></span></span></b></div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: arial, tahoma, helvetica, freesans, sans-serif; line-height: 19.85pt; margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt;">
<b style="line-height: 1.656; text-indent: -0.25in;"><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; line-height: 17.12px;">Environmental Concerns of Septic Tanks (2016, 07 September). </span></b></div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: arial, tahoma, helvetica, freesans, sans-serif; line-height: 19.85pt; margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; line-height: 17.12px; text-indent: -0.25in;">Retrieved from </span><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; line-height: 17.12px; text-indent: -0.25in;"><a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Septic_tank" style="color: #771100; line-height: 17.12px; text-decoration: none; text-indent: -0.25in;">https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Septic_tank</a></span><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; line-height: 17.12px; text-indent: -0.25in;"> </span></div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: arial, tahoma, helvetica, freesans, sans-serif; line-height: 19.85pt; margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt;">
<b style="line-height: 19.85pt; text-indent: -0.25in;"><br /></b></div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: arial, tahoma, helvetica, freesans, sans-serif; line-height: 19.85pt; margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt;">
<b style="line-height: 19.85pt; text-indent: -0.25in;">Low Cost Septic Tank Installation in Detroit, MI (2016).</b><br />
<span style="line-height: 19.85pt; text-indent: -0.25in;">Retrieved from </span><span style="line-height: 19.85pt; text-indent: -0.25in;"><a href="http://www.sortfix.com/septic-tank-installation/mi/detroit.php" style="color: #771100; line-height: 19.85pt; text-decoration: none; text-indent: -0.25in;">http://www.sortfix.com/septic-tank-installation/mi/detroit.php</a></span></div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: arial, tahoma, helvetica, freesans, sans-serif; line-height: 19.85pt; margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt;">
<b style="line-height: 19.85pt; text-indent: -0.25in;"><br /></b></div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: arial, tahoma, helvetica, freesans, sans-serif; line-height: 19.85pt; margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt;">
<b style="line-height: 1.656; text-indent: -0.25in;"><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; line-height: 17.12px;">Michael D. Shaw. (2006, 18 September) What A Waste: Septic Tanks And Their Environmental Problems</span>.</b><br />
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; line-height: 17.12px; text-indent: -0.25in;">Retrieved from </span><a href="https://www.gasdetection.com/interscan-in-the-news/magazine-articles/waste-septic-tanks-environmental-problems/" style="color: #771100; font-family: 'times new roman', serif; line-height: 17.12px; text-decoration: none; text-indent: -0.25in;"><span style="color: windowtext;">https://www.gasdetection.com/interscan-in-the-news/magazine-articles/waste-septic-tanks-environmental-problems/</span></a></div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: arial, tahoma, helvetica, freesans, sans-serif; line-height: 19.85pt; margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt;">
<b style="line-height: 19.85pt; text-indent: -0.25in;"><br /></b>
<b style="line-height: 19.85pt; text-indent: -0.25in;">Peters, A. (2016, July 7). This Detroit House Is Being Turned Into A Living Model Of Cost-Saving Sustainable Design. World Changing Ideas.</b><span style="line-height: 19.85pt; text-indent: -0.25in;"> </span></div>
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<span style="line-height: 19.85pt; text-indent: -0.25in;">Retrieved from </span><span style="line-height: 19.85pt; text-indent: -0.25in;"><a href="https://www.fastcoexist.com/3061563/world-changing-ideas/this-detroit-house-is-being-turned-into-a-living-model-of-cost-saving-s" style="color: #771100; line-height: 19.85pt; text-decoration: none; text-indent: -0.25in;">https://www.fastcoexist.com/3061563/world-changing-ideas/this-detroit-house-is-being-turned-into-a-living-model-of-cost-saving-s</a></span></div>
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akmalakashahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13931126181787301712noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2498993095237331186.post-41006589208265701482016-09-25T06:41:00.001-07:002016-09-27T05:44:14.204-07:00Summary & Reader Response Draft #1<div style="line-height: 1.656;">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="color: black; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">In the article, “</span><span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">This Detroit House Is Being Turned Into A Living Model Of Cost-Saving Sustainable Design”,</span><span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> </span><span style="color: black; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">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. </span><span style="line-height: 1.38;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">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. </span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; line-height: 19.85pt;">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.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">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 <span style="background: white;">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. </span>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. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">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.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">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.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">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.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">References<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; line-height: 19.85pt; text-indent: -0.25in;">1.<span style="font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span><b style="line-height: 19.85pt; text-indent: -0.25in;">Peters, A. (2016, July 7). This Detroit House Is Being Turned Into A Living Model Of Cost-Saving Sustainable Design. World Changing Ideas.</b><span style="line-height: 19.85pt; text-indent: -0.25in;"> Retrieved from </span><span style="color: windowtext; line-height: 19.85pt; text-indent: -0.25in;"><a href="https://www.fastcoexist.com/3061563/world-changing-ideas/this-detroit-house-is-being-turned-into-a-living-model-of-cost-saving-s" style="line-height: 19.85pt; text-indent: -0.25in;">https://www.fastcoexist.com/3061563/world-changing-ideas/this-detroit-house-is-being-turned-into-a-living-model-of-cost-saving-s</a></span></div>
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<span style="line-height: 19.85pt; text-indent: -0.25in;"><br /><span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;"><b>2.</b></span><span style="font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span><b style="line-height: 19.85pt; text-indent: -0.25in;">New Low-Cost Residential Solar Power Available (2013, 23 September).</b><br />
<span style="line-height: 19.85pt; text-indent: -0.25in;">Retrieved from </span><span style="color: windowtext; line-height: 19.85pt; text-indent: -0.25in;"><a href="http://detroit.cbslocal.com/2013/09/23/new-low-cost-residential-solar-power-available/" style="line-height: 19.85pt; text-indent: -0.25in;">http://detroit.cbslocal.com/2013/09/23/new-low-cost-residential-solar-power-available/</a></span></div>
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<span style="color: windowtext; line-height: 19.85pt; text-indent: -0.25in;"><br /></span><b style="line-height: 19.85pt; text-indent: -0.25in;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; mso-fareast-font-family: Arial;">3.<span style="font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span></b><b style="line-height: 19.85pt; text-indent: -0.25in;">Low Cost Septic Tank Installation in Detroit, MI (2016).</b></div>
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<span style="line-height: 19.85pt; text-indent: -0.25in;"> Retrieved from </span><a href="http://www.sortfix.com/septic-tank-installation/mi/detroit.php" style="line-height: 19.85pt; text-indent: -0.25in;"><span style="color: windowtext;">http://www.sortfix.com/septic-tank-installation/mi/detroit.php</span></a><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 17.12px; text-indent: -0.25in;"><br /></span></div>
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<b style="line-height: 1.656; text-indent: -0.25in;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 17.12px;">4.<span style="font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span></b><b style="line-height: 1.656; text-indent: -0.25in;"><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 17.12px;">Environmental Concerns of Septic Tanks (2016, 07 September).</span></b><br />
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 17.12px; text-indent: -0.25in;">Retrieved from </span><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 17.12px; text-indent: -0.25in;"><a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Septic_tank" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 17.12px; text-indent: -0.25in;">https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Septic_tank</a></span><span style="background-color: white; font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 17.12px; text-indent: -0.25in;"> </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="line-height: 17.12px;"><br /></span></span><b style="line-height: 1.656; text-indent: -0.25in;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 17.12px;">5.<span style="font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span></b><b style="line-height: 1.656; text-indent: -0.25in;"><span style="background: white; font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 17.12px;">Michael D. Shaw. (2006, 18 September) What A Waste: Septic Tanks And Their Environmental Problems</span>.</b><br />
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 17.12px; text-indent: -0.25in;">Retrieved from </span><a href="https://www.gasdetection.com/interscan-in-the-news/magazine-articles/waste-septic-tanks-environmental-problems/" style="font-family: 'times new roman', serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 17.12px; text-indent: -0.25in;"><span style="color: windowtext;">https://www.gasdetection.com/interscan-in-the-news/magazine-articles/waste-septic-tanks-environmental-problems/</span></a></div>
akmalakashahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13931126181787301712noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2498993095237331186.post-52307898845917081162016-09-21T19:33:00.002-07:002016-09-21T19:35:03.256-07:00Areas For Improvement In This TrimesterThe key 3 areas I need improvement in this trimester are as follows:<br />
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1) Concise and Clear sentences<br />
2) Verb Tense Usage<br />
3) Sentence Structure<br />
<br />akmalakashahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13931126181787301712noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2498993095237331186.post-65554011624983203112016-09-21T02:51:00.003-07:002016-09-23T20:47:47.511-07:00Summary & Thesis Draft<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
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<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: "arial"; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">In the article, “</span><span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: "arial"; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">This Detroit House Is Being Turned Into A Living Model Of Cost-Saving Sustainable Design”,</span><span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: "arial"; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> </span><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: "arial"; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">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. </span><span style="line-height: 1.38;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">In my opinion, the students have a practical idea in implementing these changes to the Detroit community, yet these changes are too ambitious.</span></span><br />
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<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: "arial"; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: underline; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">References</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: "arial"; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: underline; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">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</span></div>
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akmalakashahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13931126181787301712noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2498993095237331186.post-4826545190866046382016-09-13T07:29:00.000-07:002016-09-21T02:59:57.507-07:00Formal Letter<div class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: white; font-family: Cambria; font-size: 14.85px; line-height: 20.79px; text-align: justify;">
To: Mr. Brad Blackstone<o:p></o:p></div>
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From: Mohamed Akmal<o:p></o:p></div>
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Date: September 10, 2016<o:p></o:p></div>
<span style="background-color: white; font-family: "cambria"; font-size: 14.85px; line-height: 20.79px; text-align: justify;">Subject: Self-introduction of Akmal</span><br />
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Dear Brad,<br />
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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.<br />
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Regards,<br />
Akmal<br />
SIE 2016<br />
Group 1<br />
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-Commented on Ahmad Naqeef's formal letter on 15/09/2016<br />
-Commented on Masyita's formal letter on 15/09/2016<br />
-Revised on 21/09/2016akmalakashahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13931126181787301712noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2498993095237331186.post-56331265062566960162016-09-13T07:28:00.002-07:002016-09-21T03:05:56.894-07:00The Importance Of EnglishEnglish 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.<br />
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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.<br />
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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.<br />
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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.<br />
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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.<br />
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-Revised on 15/09/2016<br />
-Commented on Danish's blog on 15/09/2016.<br />
-Revised on 21/09/2016<br />
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<br />akmalakashahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13931126181787301712noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2498993095237331186.post-87855808569435514402016-09-06T16:41:00.001-07:002016-09-06T16:41:46.460-07:00The PurposeHi all!<br />
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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. </div>
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Thanks! </div>
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-Akmal<br />
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akmalakashahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13931126181787301712noreply@blogger.com1