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Week 15: Final Exam and Research Defense – The Culmination of Our Journey

Hello again!

This week marked the culmination of our semester's efforts, as we undertook our final exam and presented our research defense.

The final exam tested our understanding of the course material, challenging us to apply the knowledge we've accumulated over the past weeks. It was a rigorous assessment, but we approached it with confidence, knowing the dedication we've invested in our studies.

Following the exam, we presented our research project to our instructors, Sir Earl and Ma'am Clandestine. We showcased our graphical user interface (GUI) design, developed collaboratively using Figma, and explained the underlying concepts and functionalities. Their feedback was invaluable, highlighting both the strengths of our project and areas for improvement.

Defending our research allowed us to reflect on our learning journey, demonstrating not only our technical skills but also our ability to communicate and justify our design choices. It was a rewarding experience that underscored the importance of teamwork, perseverance, and continuous learning.

As we conclude this chapter, we're proud of what we've accomplished and grateful for the guidance and support we've received. This experience has equipped us with skills and insights that will serve us well in our future endeavors.

[xjackofalltradesx]

Week 14: Presenting Our GUI to Sir Earl and Ma'am Clandestine – Feedback and Next Steps

Hello again!

This week, we had the opportunity to present the graphical user interface (GUI) of our research project to Sir Earl and Ma'am Clandestine. Using Figma, we showcased the design elements and functionalities we've developed so far.

During the presentation, both instructors provided valuable feedback. They appreciated the overall layout and user flow, noting that the interface was intuitive and aligned well with our project's objectives. However, they also pointed out areas for improvement, such as enhancing the visual hierarchy and ensuring consistency in design elements across different screens.

Their insights were incredibly helpful, guiding us to refine our design further. We discussed the feedback as a team and started implementing the suggested changes to improve the user experience.

This experience emphasized the importance of constructive criticism in the development process. We're grateful for the guidance from Sir Earl and Ma'am Clandestine and are committed to applying their suggestions to enhance our project's quality.

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Week 13: Face-to-Face Meeting with My Teammates for Better GUI Work and Oral Recitation with Sir Earl

Hello again!

This week, our team met in person to enhance our graphical user interface (GUI) for the research project. Collaborating face-to-face allowed us to discuss design ideas more effectively and make real-time adjustments using Figma. This direct interaction improved our workflow and strengthened our teamwork.

We also had an oral recitation with Sir Earl, focusing on our recent progress. He provided valuable feedback, helping us identify areas for improvement. His insights motivated us to refine our work further.

Overall, this week was productive. Meeting in person and receiving guidance from Sir Earl boosted our confidence and commitment to the project. We're looking forward to continuing our progress in the coming weeks.

[xjackofalltradesx]

Week 12: Collaborating with My Teammates to Build Our Research GUI

Hello again!

This week, our team focused on developing the graphical user interface (GUI) for our research project. After the Holy Week break and our recent oral recitation with Sir Earl, we were eager to translate our ideas into a functional design.

We began by outlining the key features and user flows essential for our system. Each team member took on specific roles based on their strengths—some focused on layout design, others on coding functionality.

Regular meetings allowed us to discuss challenges and brainstorm solutions collaboratively. This approach ensured that everyone was aligned and contributed to the project's success.

By the end of the week, we had a working prototype of our GUI, reflecting our collective efforts and dedication. It's rewarding to see our research take shape in a tangible form, and we're excited to continue refining it in the coming weeks.

[xjackofalltradesx]

Week 11: Back to Work – Oral Recitation with Sir Earl

Hello again!

After the Holy Week break, we resumed our research project with renewed energy. This week was particularly significant as we had a face-to-face oral recitation with Sir Earl, focusing on Modules 7, 8, and 9.​

📘 Module 7: Entity Relationship Diagram (ERD)

We began by discussing Entity Relationship Diagrams (ERDs), which are essential tools for visualizing the structure of a database. ERDs help in identifying entities, their attributes, and the relationships between them. This understanding is crucial for designing a coherent and efficient database schema.​

📗 Module 8: Database Normalization

Next, we delved into Database Normalization, a process that organizes data to reduce redundancy and improve integrity. We reviewed the different normal forms, from 1NF to 3NF, and discussed how each step helps in structuring the database more effectively.​

📙 Module 9: Data Dictionary

Finally, we explored the concept of a Data Dictionary, which serves as a centralized repository of information about the data in a database. It includes details like data types, relationships, and constraints, providing a reference for developers and users alike.​

The oral recitation with Sir Earl was both challenging and enlightening. It reinforced our understanding of these fundamental concepts and highlighted areas where we can further improve our project. As we move forward, we're committed to applying these insights to enhance the quality and effectiveness of our research.​

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Week 10: A Sacred Pause – Observing Holy Week

Hello again!

This week, we decided to take a step back from our research activities to observe Holy Week, a deeply significant time in the Philippines. Recognizing the importance of this period for reflection and spiritual renewal, we paused our academic work to participate in various Holy Week traditions.​

Our observances included attending church services, engaging in the Pabasa ng Pasyon, and visiting multiple churches as part of the Visita Iglesia. These practices allowed us to connect more deeply with our faith and community.​

Taking this break provided us with a renewed sense of purpose and clarity. As we prepare to return to our research, we do so with refreshed minds and spirits, ready to tackle the challenges ahead with renewed vigor.​

[xjackofalltradesx]

Week 9: Halfway Through – Getting Ready for Holy Week

Hello again!

This week, we've reached the halfway point of our research project—about 50% completed. It's been a rewarding journey so far, and we're proud of the progress we've made. We've gathered valuable data and insights that are shaping our study.​

As Holy Week approaches, we recognize its significance in our community here in Cagayan de Oro. This period is marked by various traditions and observances that bring families and communities together in reflection and devotion.​

One of the cherished traditions is Visita Iglesia, where devotees visit seven churches to pray and reflect on the Stations of the Cross. In Cagayan de Oro, this practice offers a profound way to commemorate the Passion of Christ. ​

Another significant tradition is the Pabasa ng Pasyon, an all-night chanting of the Passion of Christ in metered verses. This act of devotion is one of the oldest Holy Week rituals, bringing together believers from all walks of life.

Understanding the importance of Holy Week, we've decided to plan our schedule accordingly. We'll continue working on our project but at a slower pace, allowing time for reflection and participation in the week's observances. This balance helps us stay connected to our cultural and spiritual roots while keeping our academic goals in sight.​

As we prepare for the upcoming week, we're reminded of the importance of taking breaks and finding meaning beyond our daily tasks. We're looking forward to returning to our research with renewed energy and perspective after Holy Week.

[xjackofalltradesx]

Week 8: Embracing Feedback – Refining Our Research

Hello again!

This week, our focus shifted to revising our research project based on the insightful feedback provided by our instructor. The comments highlighted areas where we could enhance our analysis and presentation, prompting us to delve deeper into our data and refine our arguments.​

We began by reviewing each piece of feedback, discussing how best to address the suggestions. This collaborative process led us to re-examine our methodology and consider alternative interpretations of our findings. Incorporating these changes not only strengthened our research but also deepened our understanding of the subject matter.​

Working through revisions can be challenging, but it's also incredibly rewarding. It pushes us to think critically, question our assumptions, and strive for clarity and precision in our work. We're grateful for the guidance and are committed to producing a comprehensive and well-articulated final report.​

As we continue this process, we're reminded that feedback is an essential part of learning and growth. Embracing it wholeheartedly allows us to elevate our work and develop as researchers.​

[xjackofalltradesx]

Week 7: After the Final Exam – Continuing Our Research Journey

Hello again, everyone!

With final exams behind me, I took a moment to reflect on the discipline and time management skills developed during that intense period. These skills are now proving invaluable as I re-engage with our ongoing research project.​

Returning to the research, I revisited our objectives and assessed the progress made thus far. This involved reviewing collected data, analyzing findings, and identifying areas that require further attention. By doing so, I ensured that the research remains focused and aligned with our initial goals.​

Looking ahead, I established a clear plan for the next stages of the project. Setting deadlines for data analysis, drafting findings, and preparing for upcoming presentations helps manage the workload effectively and minimizes last-minute stress.​

After the intensity of finals, maintaining motivation is crucial. To keep the momentum going, I set small, achievable goals that provide a sense of accomplishment as I progress.​

Transitioning from final exams back to research requires a shift in focus and renewed dedication. By reflecting on the journey, re-engaging with the project, planning ahead, and staying motivated, I continue to make meaningful progress. Carrying forward the discipline and determination developed during exams, I'm committed to advancing our research journey.​

[xjackofalltradesx]

Week 6: Preparing for the Examination Day

The Day Before the Exam

1. The Night Before

I knew that a good night's sleep was crucial, so I made sure to get at least eight hours of rest. This helped me feel refreshed and ready to tackle the exam.​

2. Morning Routine

I started my day with a healthy breakfast, including whole grains and fruits, to fuel my brain. Staying hydrated was also important, so I drank plenty of water.​

3. Arrival at the Exam Venue

To avoid any last-minute stress, I arrived at the exam center early. This gave me time to settle in, organize my materials, and mentally prepare for the task ahead.​

4. During the Exam

I carefully read through all the instructions and questions before starting. Time management was key, so I allocated specific time slots for each section and kept an eye on the clock to ensure I stayed on track.​

5. Staying Calm and Focused

Whenever I encountered a challenging question, I took a few deep breaths to stay calm. If needed, I moved on to the next question and returned to the difficult ones later, ensuring that I maintained a steady pace throughout the exam.

[xjackofalltradesx]

Week 5: Analyzing the Data

Preparing the Data

We began by ensuring all interview recordings were accurately transcribed. This meticulous process was crucial, as it allowed us to immerse ourselves fully in the narratives shared by pet owners and veterinary professionals.

Coding and Identifying Themes

With clean transcripts in hand, we embarked on coding—assigning labels to significant words, phrases, or sections. This step facilitated the identification of recurring themes and patterns within the data. As we delved deeper, several prominent themes emerged:

Communication: The pivotal role of clear and compassionate communication between pet owners and veterinarians.

Empathy: The profound impact of empathy in enhancing the pet care experience.

Accessibility: Challenges related to accessing affordable and timely veterinary services.

Interpreting the Findings

Our thematic analysis revealed that effective communication and empathy are foundational to positive pet care experiences. Additionally, the accessibility of services emerged as a critical concern, highlighting the need for more inclusive and affordable veterinary care options.

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Week 4: The Interview Day

Visiting the Clinic

Instead of setting up a venue, we immersed ourselves directly into the environment where pet care unfolds daily—the veterinary clinic. This approach allowed us to capture authentic experiences and observe the dynamics between pet owners and veterinary professionals in real-time.

Conducting the Interviews

We coordinated with the clinic to schedule interviews during their less busy hours, ensuring minimal disruption. A quiet room within the clinic was designated for our conversations, providing privacy and comfort for our participants.

Each interview unfolded as a unique narrative, rich with experiences and insights. For instance, Maria shared her journey with her aging cat, Whiskers, highlighting the importance of empathy and clear communication in veterinary practice. Dr. Santos, a seasoned veterinarian, discussed the significance of building trust with pet owners to enhance treatment outcomes.

Observations and Insights

Conducting interviews within the clinic provided us with a deeper understanding of the daily interactions and challenges faced by both pet owners and veterinary staff. We observed the importance of a welcoming environment, the need for clear communication, and the value of empathy in fostering strong relationships.

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Week 3: Preparing for the Interview Day

With the initial data in hand, we shifted our focus to preparing for our big interview day—a day we knew would be filled with real stories and genuine connections. In the days leading up to the event, we worked together as a team to organize every detail.

In our team meetings, we went over our plan step by step. We discussed how we would start the day with simple, light questions to break the ice, ensuring that everyone felt at ease right from the beginning. We planned to remind our guests why we were there—to listen, learn, and ultimately help improve pet care based on their true stories. We spent time rehearsing our opening remarks, making sure that our introduction was warm and honest. We wanted every participant to understand that this was not a formal interrogation but a friendly conversation where their experiences mattered.

We also prepared a list of key topics to discuss during the interviews, but we knew that the best parts of the conversation would happen naturally. Our strategy was to listen carefully and follow up with more questions when something interesting came up. In the final hours before the event, we checked all our recording equipment, confirmed our meeting links, and made sure that the space was set up just right—every chair, every light, every sound. Our team felt excited and a bit nervous, knowing that the day ahead would bring many stories and insights.

[xjackofalltradesx]

Week 2: Unleashing the Power of a Well-Crafted Questionnaire

We began our journey by setting clear research objectives. We asked ourselves, “What do we really want to know?” This simple question guided every step of our process. We dedicated hours to brainstorming and defining the key areas of interest, from the daily challenges of pet ownership to the service gaps experienced by veterinary clinics. With these goals in mind, we set out to create a questionnaire that would serve as a genuine conversation starter rather than a bland survey form.

Crafting the questionnaire turned into an adventure in itself. We aimed to write questions in a friendly, conversational tone—imagine chatting with a good friend rather than answering a dry survey. We experimented with different ways of phrasing our questions until each one felt natural and inviting. Every question was designed to be clear and engaging, ensuring that respondents would not feel overwhelmed by technical jargon or overly complex language. The process of drafting and redrafting our questions was exhilarating, as each iteration revealed new opportunities to uncover meaningful insights.

This entire week was an exciting blend of creative writing, analytical thinking, and genuine human connection. The insights emerging from our questionnaire were a promising prelude to the deeper exploration that lay ahead.

[xjackofalltradesx]

The struggle

PetConnect: Connecting Pets and Vets

It all started with a simple idea: how can we make veterinary care more accessible, efficient, and user-friendly for pet owners and veterinarians alike? From there, the brainstorming began, and soon we had multiple proposals. The first one was PetCare Portal, a platform for pet health tracking. The second was PetMatch, an app designed to connect pet owners with local services. Finally, we landed on PetConnect: Connecting Pets and Vets, a comprehensive system aimed at revolutionizing how pets interact with their healthcare providers.

Choosing the right proposal was challenging, but after careful consideration and discussions, PetConnect emerged as the most impactful solution. This idea focuses on connecting pets with veterinarians through an intuitive online platform that streamlines appointment scheduling, health tracking, and emergency services. Pet owners will have easy access to their pets' medical history, making it simpler to maintain routine care and react swiftly in emergencies.

After presenting our proposal to our instructor, the response was overwhelmingly positive. PetConnect was selected as the final project topic, and now we can dive into how this system will utilize modern technology to create a more seamless, responsive experience for both pet owners and vets.

The beauty of PetConnect lies in its ability to bridge the gap between traditional veterinary practices and modern technological solutions. By implementing features like telemedicine, instant chat with vets, and automated appointment reminders, this system will make it easier for pet owners to manage their pets’ healthcare needs and ensure that animals receive timely, high-quality care.

#yourpetisourpriority