Assalamualaikum & hi everyone!

You are now in 3rd week of your EP journey! Good job on your progress so far!

Please share your experience with your friends. You can write, upload lots of pictures & videos. Do comment and give a like on your friends’ posts too =)

1. Your name, matric number, date

2. Your progress so far

3. Your feelings and thoughts

4. How did you learn and apply the skill of decision making in your EP journey?

5. How did you manage your time throughout this EP journey?

6. Your plan for next week (Week 4)

Name: Faris Hamizan

Matric no.: A183584

Date: 16/08/2024

2.     Your progress so far

On the 16^th of August 2024, I had my third session of the Bahasa Isyarat Malaysia (BIM) level 1. In this session we would conclude the topic on visual gesture communication (VGC) and continue to the sign communication. The session started with each students’ video presentation on an animal chosen to visually gesture in which other students would have to guess what animal it was. Then, we had to visually gesture a celebrity that was given by our instructor where other students also had to guess who it was. Now, this was challenging as we had to really pay attention to not only the hand gestures but also the facial expressions. In addition, some degree of pop culture knowledge was also important to aid in finding the correct answer. The celebrity I was given was Tan Sri Michelle Yeoh. This was a difficult celebrity to visually gesture but with time, my other colleagues got to that answer.

Next, we began learning the essentials of basic Malaysian sign language. This included signing alphabets and numbers. This was followed with a test for the students where we had to spell a word using alphabets sign. Then, we were given sentences in the form of sign language(pictures) to synthesize into worded questions. Overall, another interesting and enjoyable session!  

3.     Your feelings and thoughts

As this third week concluded, learning sign language is very enjoyable and engaging however it is indeed challenging. Early on, I knew this would not be as easy as some might think it ought to be. Unlike other languages where it mostly involved the use of vocal vocabulary and pronunciations, sign language requires one to utilize movements of the hand along with facial expressions. Thus, it is an entirely new skill to learn compared to other languages. Furthermore, I feel that I am slow to grasp on the understanding and memory to sign each alphabet correctly. Hence, at times it was difficult to follow, especially during the synthetization of sentences in sign language to words. I would be lying if it did not make me feel disappointed in myself. Feelings of doubt and inferiority also accompanied the disappointed. That being said, I cannot place too high expectations on myself and expect to be an immediate expert in something I have no prior experience of. Moreover, it is too early to feel these negative feelings as there is still a long way to go in my journey to master BIM.

4.     How did you learn and apply the skill of decision making in your EP journey?

This EP journey certainly further taught me the skill of decision making. It all started when I first decided to take sign language course as the chosen EP. In the beginning, I had always been interested in sign language and its use in the community, but I was unsure if it was worthwhile and right for me.

I personally did not think I would get much from it. However, upon further consideration and taking into account that I am a medical student, the knowledge of BIM is more important and handy than I thought it would be. This is because as doctors we deal with many types of patients and some of them may be deaf. Hence, having the ability to communicate directly in sign language with them is not only a massive advantage for me but also benefits them. Firstly, it improves doctor-patient relationship by having proper understanding between one another and establishes good rapport. Furthermore, their expectations can be met easier as there would not be a language barrier between the doctor and patient.

Thus, the decision to choose sign language as my EP taught me that the decisions you make must not only encompass your personal gain but also what it would bring to the community in the future. In this case, having the knowledge of communicating in sign language as a doctor would allow the treatment of deaf patients more effective.

5.     How did you manage your time throughout this EP journey?

Throughout this EP journey, the period of EP also coinciding with our semester break allows easier planning of practicing sessions in the day. I was able to allocate a certain time of practice which would be 15 minutes every 2 hours to revise my sign alphabets and numbers. This would help me gradually gain the muscle memory to perform these signs.  

6.     Your plan for next week (Week 4)

• Continue with the daily schedule of sign language practice

• Read up on more materials along with more videos that help in signing sentences

• Complete the homework given by my instructor before the next session (23/08/24)

4. I applied the skill of decision making by when I was first looking for a teacher for this elective period. I had first compiled a list of all the Kathak teachers I had found on Google and then narrowed it down to the places that were accesible by public transport.

   
   

   Then I proceeded to find out which teachers were able to provide private lessons 4 days a week for one month. This was challenging as most teachers preferred to take on students for a long term period. Once I found a teacher who was willing to take me on, I then explained the purpose of this elective posting. She helped me design a learning plan for these classes to ensure I learn as much as possible without sacrificing the basics.

   
   

5. Time management has been very important this posting as my classes start at 9 am in Brickfields. Thus, I have had to leave my apartment about an hour before to ensure I am punctual. Additionally, I also have to take into account that the MRT is extremely crowded due to it being rush-hour traffic. Thus, I sometimes end up having to wait for the next train as there is not enough space on the previous ones.

   
   

   Time management was important for the classes as well to ensure that I was able to complete the learning objectives of this posting. My teacher's learning plan has been especially helpful for this.

6. We will be working on the finer points of the dance steps we have learnt over the past one month and also preparing for our final dance performance.

   
   

   The performance will be held at the studio at the end of Week 4 for me to showcase what I have learnt so far.

   
   

   
   

Name: Alya Izzati Binti Mohd Noor Afanday

Matric number: A187937

Date: 13/08/2024

2. Your progress so far

In the third week, I have learned the last 3 topics, which are topics 7, 8, and 9. Topic 7 is about places. In this topic, I learnt signs for states and capitals. I can use these signs to talk about which state I come from, where I live, and places I like. At the beginning of this topic, I learned sign vocabulary like "lahir" and "sekarang". Then, I learned signs for states and capitals such as Johor Bahru, Johor, and Seremban, Negeri Sembilan. At the end of the topic, I completed the given activities by watching videos and answering the questions provided.

Topic 8, on the other hand, is about occupations. In this topic, I learned signs related to occupations such as teacher, clerk, doctor, nurse, and soldier. These signs can be used to talk about jobs or share information about other people. At the beginning of this topic, I learned sign vocabulary like "surirumah", "tidak ada", "ya", and "lama". Before moving on to the next topic, I was required to complete the quiz in this topic first. I watched a video where they communicated about their jobs and shared about the occupations of their family members.

Lastly, topic 9 is about weather, schedules, and celebrations. In this topic, I learned signs related to weather such as rain, scorching heat, and storm. Furthermore, I also learned signs to indicate time such as day, week, month, and year. Lastly, I learned signs for celebrations commonly observed in Malaysia like Hari Raya, Deepavali, and Chinese New Year. I can use these signs to tell about my daily routine and special events. In addition, I also learned sign vocabulary that can help me in this topic such as "kelas", "kesesakan lalu lintas", "strok haba", "masa lapang", dan "balik kampung". As usual, there is a quiz on weather, schedules, and celebrations that I need to complete before finishing this topic. I also need to upload my video using the sign language learned for all three subtopics.

3. Your feelings and thoughts

Throughout the learning of the last three topics, I experienced a range of emotions and thoughts. Initially, as I go into the topics, I felt a sense of enjoyment and excitement. Learning new signs for states, capitals, occupations, weather, and celebrations opened up a whole new world of communication and expression for me in sign language. However, as I progressed and answered the quizzes that tested my understanding of the material, I felt frustrated. The quizzes became more difficult, which require deeper comprehension and recall of the signs and concepts that I had learned. This led to moments of doubt and uncertainty, causing myself to feel pressured. Thankfully, my perseverance and dedication shone through as I continued to push through the difficulties. After I successfully completed all nine topics in the course, I felt a sense of relief. Successfully finishing the last topic and completing the full course brought a profound sense of accomplishment and satisfaction.

4. How did you learn and apply the skill of decision making in your EP journey?

Throughout my elective posting journey, I applied the skill of decision-making in various ways. When faced with the choice of selecting a project for this elective posting, I made a decision based on my interest in sign language and the desire to broaden my communication skills. As I progressed through the course, I encountered decisions regarding how to allocate my study time effectively and how to approach the quizzes and assignments. Each decision I made contributed to my learning experience and growth in sign language proficiency. By weighing options, analyzing information, and making choices, I developed and refined my decision-making skills, which will be useful in my daily life.

5. How did you manage your time throughout this EP journey?

I allocated time each day to study the materials, practice signing, and review the concepts covered in each topic. I ensured steady progress and maintained a consistent pace in my learning by setting specific goals for myself. Additionally, I prioritized tasks based on deadlines and importance, allowing myself to stay on track and meet the requirements of the course. Through my disciplined approach to time management, I optimized my learning experience, maximized productivity, and successfully completed all the topics.

6. Your plan for next week (Week 4)

My plan for the last week of this elective posting is to complete the final assignment of the course, use sign language to communicate with Deaf people, and get a certificate for completion of the course.

Name : Nur Izzatun Najwa Binti Mokhtar

Matric Number : A188550

1. My progress so far

My third week of Pilates felt like a turning point. I began noticing improvements in my strength and coordination, though it wasn't without its challenges. The exercises felt more familiar, and I was getting better at controlling my movements on the reformer machine. However, certain poses still pushed my limits, especially the ones that required core stability. The routine is starting to feel less overwhelming, but it’s still a mental and physical workout, which keeps me engaged.

2. My feelings and thoughts

On the second final week of Pilates, I may felt a mix of accomplishment and reflection. I’ve likely proud of the progress I’ve made, both in terms of physical strength and my understanding of Pilates principles. There may be a sense of satisfaction as I realize how far I’ve come from the first week, especially with improved balance, core strength, and flexibility. At the same time, I felt a bit nostalgic as the journey comes to a close, as I’ve developed a routine and connection with my instructor and fellow participants.

3. How did you learn and apply the skill of decision making in your EP journey?

▶️ Breathing Coordination: Effective decision-making comes into play in coordinating my breath with movements, especially in more complex exercises. I  decided to focus on controlled breathing to enhance my performance.

▶️ Pacing and Intensity: Throughout the session, I would have decided how fast or slow to move, balancing between maintaining control and achieving a good workout. When exercises became difficult, I likely had to decide whether to take short breaks or continue with modifications.

4. How did you manage your time throughout this EP journey?

I likely managed my time by consistently scheduling my Pilates sessions at the same time each week, creating a routine. This helped me to stay disciplined and reduced the likelihood of skipping classes, making it easier to integrate Pilates into my weekly activities.

Next, arriving a few minutes before each session may have given me time to settle in, stretch, and mentally prepare for the workout. This not only ensured me maximized the time spent on exercises but also helped me to start each class without feeling rushed.

5. Your plan for next week (Week 4)

Doing my very best for the final week of pilates and enjoy every moment 🧘‍♀️🤍

2. In week three of learning Kathak, we began working on two items: Arpaan and Guru Vandana. Arpaan portrays the beauty of nature in a forest, celebrating elements like flowers, bees, and birds. Guru Vandana serves as a tribute to the three gurus. Since this week was an introduction to these items, memorising and recalling the steps while dancing has been a bit challenging.

3. Since this week marked the introduction of these items, it has been somewhat challenging to memorize and recall the steps while dancing.

4. I applied my decision-making skills when searching for a teacher for this elective period. Initially, I created a list of Kathak teachers I found on Google and then filtered it to those accessible by public transport.

   
   

   Next, I looked into which teachers could offer private lessons four days a week for a month. This was challenging because many teachers preferred long-term commitments from their students. Once I found a teacher willing to accommodate my schedule, I explained the purpose of my elective. She helped me develop a learning plan for these classes to maximize my learning while still covering the basics.

5. Effective time management has been crucial during this posting. My classes start at 9 a.m. in Brickfields, so I need to leave my apartment about an hour earlier to ensure punctuality. Additionally, I have to consider that the MRT is often crowded during rush hour, which sometimes means waiting for the next train due to insufficient space on the previous ones.

   
   

   Managing my time effectively has also been important for meeting the learning objectives of this posting. My teacher's learning plan has been particularly helpful in this regard.

6. For week four, the focus will be on performance elements. This includes refining the neatness of the steps and practicing facial expressions.

Name: Erin Erisha Binti Rudzuan

Matric number: A188549

Date: 8/8/2024

2. Your progress so far

This week’s Pilates routines took a significant turn, focusing on slower, more deliberate movements that truly tested my core strength and stability. In previous weeks, Ms Nik had designed routines that were more upbeat and dynamic, keeping my energy high and my muscles engaged without too much strain, as the movements flowed more quickly from one to the next. I did experienced trembling, however, this week was different. The slower pace demanded extra control, especially in holding positions that required deep engagement of my core muscles. As I worked through each exercise, I could feel my muscles beginning to tremble so hard under the sustained tension. Adding to the intensity was the noticeable increase in sounds from other participants like grunts, heavy breathing, and sighs of exertion compared to previous weeks (which we all found it very funny hence the environment was very light unlike the exercise). I also began to feel a sharp shoot in my back from holding onto my upper body. The shift from quicker, fluid motions to slower, more controlled exercises highlighted just how much strength and endurance it takes to maintain proper form.

3. Your feelings and thoughts

This week’s Pilates session left me feeling a mix of exhaustion, accomplishment, and a bit of self-reflection. I felt quite unhappy with my performance, as I struggled to execute movements correctly and maintain proper form. My difficulties were compounded by trouble understanding the instructions, which led me to frequently peek at my instructor to ensure I was following correctly. This distraction impacted my performance, as I struggled to focus on my own form while trying to keep up with the guidance. I also couldn’t help but laugh at times my friend beside me was making sounds like she was really struggling, which was both amusing and distracting. This caused me to lose concentration. The ache in my back also has me questioning whether I’m doing things correctly, so I plan to check in with my instructor about my posture. Despite these challenges, I felt a sense of progress and resilience. Each week builds on the last, and even though this session was tough and a bit scattered, it’s encouraging to see my overall improvement. It’s clear that Pilates is not just about physical strength but also about mental focus, and I’m determined to refine both as I continue this journey.

4. How did you learn and apply the skill of decision making in your EP journey?

Each session presents choices, whether it’s deciding to push myself to try a more challenging exercise, choosing to adjust my posture to prevent injury, or even recognizing when to take a break. I’ve had to make decisions about how to balance the intensity of the workout with my own physical limits.

Decision-making has been crucial when it comes to managing discomfort and deciding whether to stop a movement. When I start to feel an ache, particularly in my back (since I have a bad back) I face the immediate choice of whether to push through the discomfort or to modify or halt the exercise. This decision involves assessing the severity of the pain and determining if it’s a normal part of the muscle challenge or a sign that I’m overstraining. This required me to listen to my body and trust my instincts, understanding when to challenge myself and when to pull back. Learning to recognize these cues has been vital for preventing injury and ensuring that I don’t compromise my overall progress.

I’ve also developed decision-making skill in managing distractions during sessions. For instance, when I found myself laughing through the routine due to a friend’s sounds of struggle, I realized I needed to refocus to execute the movements correctly. This required me to make a conscious decision to tune out external distractions and center my attention back on my form and technique. These decisions have taught me the importance of being mindful in my practice, which not only enhances my physical performance but also strengthens my confidence and self-awareness.

5. How did you manage your time throughout this EP journey?

Managing my time throughout my Pilates journey has required discipline and dedication. I often find myself arriving early to my Pilates class, which gives me a chance to mentally prepare and get settled before the session starts. I allocated one hour each week for training with a licensed instructor, which provides thorough guidance and structured practice. On the days in between, I dedicate two hours every other morning to practicing at home. I use this time to review and apply the techniques I recorded and remembered from Ms Nik’s session, alongside additional exercises I follow on YouTube. This routine allows me to reinforce what I’ve learned and build on my skills consistently. By balancing professional instruction with self-practice, I ensure continuous progress and deepen my understanding of Pilates, all while fitting these commitments seamlessly into my daily schedule.

6. Your plan for next week (Week 4)

For my final week of Pilates, I plan to join the intermediate class. This decision is based on my progress over the past weeks, where I've built a solid foundation with the basic routines. In preparation, I’ll review the exercises from my previous sessions to ensure I’m comfortable with the fundamentals. I’ll also take some time to familiarize myself with the intermediate class format by researching common routines at this level. Joining this class will push me to further develop my strength, balance, and flexibility. I’m excited about the opportunity to challenge myself and see how my practice has evolved, and I’m looking forward to applying what I’ve learned in a more advanced setting.

Matrics Num : A181350

Date : 16/8/2024

2. Your progress so far

   Stepping into my 3rd week, I was way more confident with myself. I could see my old self back catching up all the new steps and choreography that have been introduced to us by our master really quick. I was focused on improving my speed and steps that required in sitting and standing up real quick which was quite a big deal for me after leaving my dance behind for 5 years. My master really understood my situation and she guided me to improve my balance and stability. We continued to learn the new song and completed our full choreo throughout this week. We practised again and again to acheive perfection in steps and a better coordination. All of us including our master always acknowledge the different style of dance among our groupmates and she always made sure that we acheive our aim without changing our own way of apporoaching this dance . We tried to give more ideas to add creativity in our new song so that it will be mpre appealing next week. As i mentioned next week will be one of the most important part of my journey. Although

   I have just entered 2 weeks ago but my master chose me to perform for a promotional video next week for Jabatan Kebudayaan dan Keseniaan Negeri Kedah ( JKKNK) .I was really proud of my progression. We worked really hard during this entire week to make sure we give our best for next week’s performance. We had extra night classes as we did not have enough time to complete our choreography for the new song. It was quite a challenging plus hectic week.

3. Your feelings and thoughts

   I was satisfied and proud of my dance journey so far. Never have i thought that i could catch up with my dance journey this fast within a short period. Only those who experienced the lack of stamina and lack of practice in something that requires physical ability will be able to feel this. It is really a big acheivement for me.

   
   

4. How did you learn and apply the skill of decision making in your EP journey?

• Decision: During performances, even as a beginner, a dancer must make choices in real-time, such as adjusting pace, energy, or interpreting audience reactions.

• Skill Application: These on-the-spot decisions, like recovering from a missed step or adjusting choreography on stage, enhance decision-making under pressure.

5. How did you manage your time throughout this EP journey?

It was really a tough journey as i was also helping out my aunty to take care of my bedridden grandmother in Penang . So i had to go back and forth from Kedah ( my house) and Penang ( my aunty’s house) every week througout my semester break. So I allocated 3 days for my dance class in Kedah and extra 1 or 2 days if got any extra class and come back to my aunt’s house to take care of my grandmother. It was quite a hectic break for me but looking back i feel very content and satisfied with my time management as i could balance my personal commitment and my elective posting period well enough.

6. Your plan for next week (Week 4)

• Attend my dance class as this would be last few class before my last performance and the end of my elective posting

• Complete my supervisor’s feedback form with my master

• Attend the promotional video shooting for JKKKNK

🔎 https://youtu.be/2iAtT1Xe4Dk?si=ypCE7ymwp2pWYgTT

Cuba teka (part 6)

🔎 https://youtu.be/SpBb9nnnkGo?si=F8y_w6uG5Ce8OeEs

Cuba teka (part 7)

🔎 https://youtu.be/nEDRzsUto7M?si=y2tzGxXdYXCDt_6s

Cuba teka (part 8)

🔎 https://youtu.be/IzS6Z3CaSTA?si=_aSfAcMgya3xMWiF

Cuba teka (part 9)

🔎 https://youtu.be/rXy746OspL8?si=njlX77IEUfY1Q9NH

📌A181295

📌13/8/2024

My Progress✅

I am super satisfied as I already half way thorough my project . Even though this week are the most challenging one as more topic need to be catch up, I able to complete it on time. There are 5 topics in total which include states in Malaysia, occupation, schedule, weather and celebration. I spend more time especially to complete the quizzes. As the time goes by, we don't only learn specifically regarding our topics but more new vocabulary were taught along the way to allow us understand a complete sentence in the quizzes. And of course all the question does not have subtitles, therefore I have to refer back to the vocabulary videos given earlier again and again. The video of the question or quizzes was made experienced teachers by themselves, so their conversation were much faster compared to their teaching video . As the result , I am having confusion even with simple sign language that I learn from previous topics. I was so greatful because I give much time for myself to figure it out thus avoid me from given up halfway. I also ask few of my friends who take the same course regarding the question that I am having a hard time with , thus help me to complete all the assignment. Lastly , I revise my studies from topic 1 and surprisingly , I dont forget them that much !

Feeling and thoughts ✅

For the third week, I felt very happy and proud of myself as I able to go through this week. As I mentioned before, I don't feel any challenges to complete the task in week 1 and 2 as the topic were easier and I have learn it before. Therefore this time , I feel even a lot happier completing each task. Even though so, I still enjoy learning new topics each day especially when I able to understand the sign language video without the subtitle . I feel like my effort in referring the teaching videos like thousand times were pays off , at the same time trained my brain to memorise them faster . Usually I have to revise back few times at the end of every topic , but this time I able to excel my revision in one go. For me the hard time teach me to be patient and strategise wisely . Therefore, I am so thankful for the experience !

How do I apply decision making in EP project ✅

Firstly, I apply my decision making when selecting the project that I want to proceed for my elective posting . I choose to take Malaysian sign language because the course is time-flexible . Second, the course will be fully online through OpenLearning Application and lastly, the fees are quite reasonable compare to one to one session . I also apply decision making skills in arranging time for my elective posting during the semester break . I choose to occupy only weekdays to do my project because most of my family members are working 8am to 5pm shift with holidays on weekend . Of course the activities are going to be on weekend and I am free . Lastly , I use my decision making skills in managing my stress. At the moment, I am aware that the project makes me having some hard time , therefore I choose to spare few hours to enjoy my chocolate , ice cream and movies as a reward in the middle of completing the task . The reward was not part of my schedule but surely will help myself in managing my stress . Instead of chasing the time , I choose to focus in work quality and take care of my mental healthcare . Yes, it is the best decision ever!

How do I manage my time throughout EP journey ✅

So through out the elective posting, I have allocated specific time for myself to do this project. I made a time table to allow myself to get back on track whenever I feel lazy or distracted by house chores. The time table also does not include my weekend to remind myself that this project must to be completed during weekdays unless I want to sacrifice my holiday. It become my main motivation as during weekends , I usually having fun and go out with my family . I will also go to the library near my house to allow myself focus on the project. The faster I finished my task , the earlier I will go back home but I only go to the library once in week. For the hard topic , I allocate one day to prevent myself from rushing it and help myself to maintain a good result in quizzes.

Plan for Next week ✅

👉🏻Practice for final video submission

👉🏻Find teammates and prepare script to practice communication in Malaysia sign language