What is Reflection?
The image of looking at oneself in a mirror, suggested by the word, means that it has implications of being conscious of what one is doing. Because of this it is a word that is widely used but not always understood. Rowntree (1988), for example, praises the reflective student who thinks about her own experience of studying and decides what changes of approach might be most suitable.
Rowntree (1988) says reflection is studying one's own study methods as seriously as one studies the subject and thinking about a learning task after you have done it. Unless you do this, he says, the task will almost certainly be wasted.
In any learning situation, he says, you should prepare for it beforehand, participate actively during it, and reflect on it afterwards.
He applies these points to working in small groups, suggesting note taking in the group as an aid to reflection afterwards, and also suggesting reflection on how the group operates. It is important, therefore, that reflection is on what is happening in the workplace and why the learning is different or unique because it is happening in the workplace
ACTIVITY:
It is important before teaching others that you have some understanding of your own learning styles and how you reflect upon events. This activity assists you in this process.
How do you reflect?
Can you give three examples of how reflection has led to changes and improvements in your actions?
How could you further develop your reflection style?
