Week 7 Journey

[Figure 1: Rolfe et al's (2001) reflective model What? So What? Now What?]

I chose the "What? So What? Now What?" reflective model because my focus this week has been on writing my report, and this straightforward framework provides a structured way to reflect. It allows me to first objectively describe what happened, then critically analyse the significance of my actions, and finally plan the next steps. This clear progression helps me link past experiences to current improvements and make more informed decisions moving forward.

What?

This week, my primary focus was completing Session 1.0 on the design problem, values, and objectives, and Session 2.0 on value aims and objectives for the DES302 assignment. The report centers on addressing the design challenges and goals of implementing green roofs on Auckland’s Queen Street to enhance biodiversity and support wild bee populations. I concentrated on organising my findings, particularly regarding plant species selection and the significance of wild bees in urban environments. Additionally, I began creating low-fidelity prototypes for a monitoring app that tracks plant health, soil conditions and bee colonies on green roofs.

Writing this report required a thorough analysis of the research I’ve gathered over the past weeks, refining key details such as material costs, plant varieties, and addressing potential challenges related to building structures and maintenance.

So What?

Writing this report allowed me to consolidate all my research into a cohesive document, giving me a clearer understanding of how the different aspects of the green roof design come together, particularly in terms of practical implementation. This process is helping shape my vision for a more sustainable Auckland CBD. However, it also revealed challenges I hadn’t fully anticipated, such as the logistical complexities of maintaining green roofs in a busy commercial environment. These insights prompted me to critically reassess the feasibility of my design for Queen Street and consider ways to better align it with the area's unique urban dynamics.

Despite the progress, I realise there’s still much I could improve. My time this week was unevenly split between DES302 and DES301, with too much focus on the report writing and not enough time allocated to prototype development. As a result, the practical aspect of the project—developing and refining the prototype—hasn't advanced as much as I would have liked. I plan to manage my time more effectively in the coming weeks to ensure both the written and physical aspects of the project progress equally.

Now What?

Moving forward, I need to refine the rooftop planting tray concept by incorporating feedback on maintenance and practicality. Additionally, I will review areas of my report where I feel uncertain, focusing on optimising the word count and strengthening the literature review. Finalising the prototype sketches and ensuring that the report flows logically from the research will also be a key priority.

By addressing these steps, I am confident to produce a comprehensive report that accurately reflects both the potential and challenges of implementing green roof designs in an urban environment like Auckland's CBD.

References

What? So what? Now what? (2020, January 30). The University of Edinburgh. https://www.ed.ac.uk/reflection/reflectors-toolkit/reflecting-on-experience/what-so-what-now-what