My experiences in the ECP
The extended curriculum program (ECP) has many different aspects to it. I have had a variety of experiences in all the subjects that the ECP has to offer. Firstly, this program has helped me build my confidence and become an independent individual through the activities given to us.
The module that I have found to be most enjoyable is life sciences because our lectures are very interactive, innovative and informative. The part I love most about these lectures are that it is made simple and understandable through explanations and video clips. I enjoy my lecturers way of teaching and she makes us feel comfortable enough to ask questions. Life science 151 also comprises of practicals which are very interactive and makes learning more fun. In these practicals we do a lot of physical work which requires us to work independently as well as in collaboration with others in order to get accurate results.
However, I find report writing challenging and boring because it requires in depth scientific thinking and language which, can sometimes be difficult to maintain throughout the report. Nonetheless, it is vital in science and I plan to work hard so that I can better my writing skills.
Furthermore, the introduction to science module has many areas that has helped strengthened my weaknesses. The computer literacy section has been a major help to me. Its has taught me many skills that I will require for a really long time. Another area that is extremely fun and relaxing is living and learning because we are able to share our experiences with our facilitator and she gives us advice on how to approach various matters. The section I find most challenging and least enjoyable is quantitative literacy as it involves many calculations and explanations thereof. Our quantitative literacy facilitator marks real strict and it can be really hard to keep tasks on time. Academic literacy however, teaches us important skills but also has many unnecessary tasks that take too much time. The facilitators can be really irritating as they are unable to hand back and respond to task on time.
The maths module in the first semester was enjoyable, but it has become challenging. Class is boring as it seems no-one is interested in learning. The maths lecturers do not make much effort to make learning more interesting. I cant wait for this year to be over so that I do not have to do mundane maths.
The ECP requires many group work activities which help us to learn to work with different types of people. My class is very helpful and there are a variety of different personalities in the class, this brings a new experience to our learning environment each day.
In addition, many of our facilitators, lecturers, demonstrators always help when I need assistance. The Extended Curriculum program has ensured that we have a strong foundation of basic knowledge in order for us to succeed at university and complete our degree program.
