Last week we were preparing for a debate on whether or not Genetically Modified crops made a positive impact on development. We had to present a short review of our readings as well as provide arguments after the other side had presented. Our group was given the Pro-GM side therefore we had to work together to prepare an argument by reading up on the subject. We used Google Sheets to colour code who was doing each reading. We then added one extra reading each to expand our understanding of the topic.

Our tutor also helped us by posting Youtube videos at Bt cotton on the VLE which could be watched on the same page.

We also created a Google Slides file to present our work in the seminar adding references as we worked:

The most difficult part was trying to coordinate different themes as a group of 6. It is near impossible to communicate this over Google Slides or Sheets so we used email for some of it and then met before the presentation to decide who would present what and how we would argue against the Con-GM side. Whilst it was efficient to have everyone being able to edit the Google Slides presentation at the same time, it also provided some confusion and sometimes it was just easier to use paper and pen. Our tutor also had access to the slide show and noticed an article she didn’t recognise. Unfortunately, the article was fairly biased and unrealistic and therefore couldn’t be used for our argument, suggesting that sometimes our wider reading can be misdirected. It is difficult however, for a debate such as this, to use sources that are unbiased and not misleading as it is a very controversial issue. Despite this, it was a very enjoyable task and the group communicated well.