Blog #5

I have learned a lot about conducting sound research studies in this class. I think the biggest thing that I learned was how to write an effective research proposal. We never really have to do those because we're always just writing up the results and conclusions in biology, but I actually appreciated learning the back end of it. I think it gave me a better idea on how to really think through the entire project and really understand the implications of it - how is this going to better society or contribute to something? The world of technical communication was an eye opener too. I had never really thought about research in these particular areas, so it was really interesting to read about everyone else's projects too! I really enjoyed the new experience, and I think it has opened my mind to other possibilities of what is out there in the research world.

The processes I have learned have taught me to really focus on the details in the technical writing - they can make or break a research project. A solid methodology paired with the right question is a powerful tool, and I'm glad I'll have the book as a reference to keep for the rest of my career now. Communication is another important aspect too - as a technical communicator, it is essential to make sure research comes across exactly how you intend it to, or else risk it getting lost in translation. 

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