This week, we resumed our group meet-up and began reviewing and combining early research and ideas from our chosen topic areas. Although everyone is still developing their individual research, sharing initial findings was valuable and helped strengthen our understanding of the project as a whole. The discussion allowed us to exchange feedback, offer advice, and reflect on our approaches, providing a useful foundation as we move into the next stage of research and development.
Our first task we completed as a group was sharing initial thoughts on the barriers and potential solutions within our chosen topic areas through our miro board we previously created. We agreed to narrow this down to around three to four key points each, which helped ensure we were aligned and working from a shared understanding. I found this process particularly useful, as it allowed us to openly discuss our early ideas and begin identifying opportunities that we can develop further as the project progresses.
<aside> <img src="/icons/notification_blue.svg" alt="/icons/notification_blue.svg" width="40px" />
Hearing others’ research was valuable in broadening our understanding and identifying ways our focus areas could be connected into a cohesive solution.
</aside>
Completing this task helped us clearly establish the key problems and early solution ideas within each topic area. Having this foundation in place means we are slightly ahead in the process and better positioned to start thinking about what our service could realistically provide to support people leaving prison.
After reviewing our topics, we were informed by our course lecturer, Maíra, of our assigned mentor for the project, Samantha from Magilligan Prison. Having a mentor confirmed early was reassuring, as it gave us a direct point of contact and allowed us to start thinking about potential questions for future discussions. I initially felt unsure about making first contact, but Eva in our group helped by drafting an example email, which made the process much clearer and more manageable.
<aside> <img src="/icons/mail_blue.svg" alt="/icons/mail_blue.svg" width="40px" />
Structuring our initial email helped us approach the project more professionally and with confidence. Having Samantha on board as our mentor provides valuable real-world insight and support as we develop our service concept.
</aside>
After a few drafts, we finalised our email to Samantha and sent it through. Reaching out felt like an important step, as her insight will be extremely valuable when it comes to interviews, reviewing our current research, and receiving professional advice to help guide the direction of our project.
<aside>
This week’s meet-up was a productive continuation of our group work, allowing us to review and share early research across our chosen topic areas. Discussing the key barriers and initial solution ideas, helped us align our thinking and move slightly ahead in defining what our service could offer. Being introduced to our project mentor, Samantha from Magilligan Prison, and finalising our first contact email, marks an important step toward gaining real-world insight to support our research and development moving forward.
</aside>