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Capstone Reflection Assignment

Ana Alfaro-Garcia

Dr. Sarah Evanick and Dr. Laura Otero

California State University Monterey Bay

School of Computing and Design

August 29, 2023

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Capstone Reflection Assignment

Introduction

The Capstone Reflection Assignment serves to give first-year MIST students a look into

the capstone project process. All the projects presented caught my attention, but I chose to learn

about adult education. Adult education is a fairly new topic for me and I wanted to see what it

consisted of. Given that I would like to be an instructional designer, seeing the projects being

created gave me a different perspective on the topic and the different materials that can be

created.

Interview Conduction

I had the opportunity to hear about all the different projects, however, I chose to be in the

breakout room with Kathleen, Denise, and Renne. For the interview part of the assignment, I the

majority of the questions to Kathleen Simmons. Kathleen’s project is “Writing for Computer

Science Students”. The self-described project is focused on supporting computer science students

at CSU Monterey Bay with their writing skills. I found this project interesting because I just

received my degree in computer science from CSUMB and had a hard time writing papers.

Kathleen mentioned when asked about the process for deciding on a project that she was

elected for the topic. Kathleen’s experience was a bit longer considering that her initial project

ideas did not have direction. After consulting her advisor and subject matter experts, she decided

on her current project. Having experience with writing, Kathleen felt this project was right for

her.

For the last question, I directed my attention to Kathleen, Denise, and Renne; they all had

plentiful insights. Kathleen mentioned that her advice would consist of being in the right mindset

to create the project and being willing to solve a problem. Stating her experience, Kathleen
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reiterated the importance of consulting your advisor and subject matter experts at all times.

Adding on, Denise emphasized that having support from the subject matter experts made her

experience with the capstone project better. Lastly, Renne talked about the importance of not

being afraid and being able to receive help and critiques to make the project excel.

Reflection

After completing the interviews, my understanding and impression of the project are now

clear. There are logistical questions that still need to be answered, however, the overall gist of

the capstone project was presented. Based on the topics covered by the interviewees, I need to

concentrate my efforts on being open to talking to my advisor as well as the subject matter

experts. I tend to be closed off and not want to ask for help, but I know having a support group

will be integral during the capstone project process.