PACKET TRACER WORKSHOP - Muhammad Taufiq bin Jurimi

As a crew member of the Packet Tracer Workshop 2022, I had the privilege of being part of an event that aimed to enhance students' understanding of networking concepts. The workshop, organized by Persatuan Mahasiswa Sains Komputer Universiti Teknologi Malaysia (PERSAKA UTM), provided an overview of the Packet Tracer application and offered participants the opportunity to gain hands-on experience with the guidance of an expert. 

Firstly, the justification for joining the workshop was clear. Packet Tracer is an essential tool widely used by computing students, particularly those second year student who take Network Communication subject. As a crew member in the publicity unit, I understood the importance of spreading the word about this event to attract participants who would greatly benefit from the workshop's content. By actively promoting the workshop, I contributed to enabling students to gain a practical understanding of Packet Tracer and enhance their skills in network simulation.

The workshop also aligned with key UTM Graduate Attributes. Communication Skills played a vital role as participants actively engaged in discussions, asked questions, and sought clarification. As a crew member responsible for publicizing the event, I recognized the significance of effective communication in conveying the workshop's purpose and encouraging participation. Additionally, the hands-on activities fostered critical thinking and problem-solving, emphasizing the Thinking Skills attribute and Scholarship, as we need to practice how to use Packet Tracer consistently. As a crew, I also need to be adaptable for sudden changes or urgencies, and apply teamworking skills to make sure the program run smoothly. Through my involvement in the workshop, I witnessed students developing their adaptability by embracing a new software tool and learning how to navigate its features.

In terms of the content of the activities, the workshop was carefully structured to provide participants with a comprehensive understanding of Packet Tracer. From the introduction by Mr. Iskandar Zulqarnain bin Mohd Ishak, an esteemed UTM alumnus and the workshop's speaker, to the hands-on exercises, every aspect was designed to enhance students' practical knowledge. Participants were guided through downloading and installing the software, exploring different network topologies, and learning about IPV4 Addressing, a fundamental aspect of network tracing. The hands-on activities provided an opportunity for participants to apply their learning and gain confidence in utilizing Packet Tracer effectively.

The Packet Tracer Workshop 2022 played a crucial role in nurturing the development of students' Graduate Attributes, equipping them with essential skills for their academic and professional journeys. Through interactive activities and engaging discussions, participants experienced a notable impact on attributes such as Communication Skills, Thinking Skills, Adaptability and Scholarship. Actively participating in discussions and asking thought-provoking questions enhanced their communication abilities, while hands-on exercises and problem-solving tasks fostered critical thinking and adaptability. Moreover, the workshop provided a scholarly environment, allowing students to deepen their understanding of network concepts and protocols, aligning with the Scholarship attribute.

As a crew member in the publicity unit, I had the advantage of being actively involved in promoting the workshop and attracting participants. Leveraging my passion for effective communication and networking, I took on the responsibility of spreading awareness about the event. Through various channels, such as printing advertisements and personally approaching friends, I effectively disseminated information and garnered support. My self-strength in communication and networking proved invaluable in driving participation and ensuring the success of the workshop.

During the planning process, challenges arose, such as the delay in task distribution by the director. To overcome this hurdle, I adopted a proactive approach. Instead of waiting for instructions, I took the initiative to print advertisements and personally engage with my friends, seeking their support in promoting the workshop. This proactive step helped maintain momentum and ensured the event received the attention it deserved. Overcoming this challenge showcased my resourcefulness and emphasized the importance of taking ownership and being proactive in achieving desired outcomes.