Reflective practice is a method of self-reflection and critical thinking that allows individuals to evaluate their experiences with the goal of improving future actions and outcomes. It encourages a deeper understanding of one’s own thoughts, feelings, and behaviors, as well as how they impact others. This process often involves questioning one’s assumptions, analyzing past decisions, and considering alternative approaches.
Reflective practice is particularly valuable in professional settings, as it promotes continuous learning and personal development. It can be structured through frameworks like Gibbs' Reflective Cycle or Schön's Reflective Model, but it can also be informal and spontaneous.
Example: Intuition in Reflective Practice
Imagine a teacher who intuitively decides to change her lesson plan mid-class after noticing that her students appear confused about a key concept. After the class, she reflects on this decision:
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What was going through my mind when I changed the lesson plan?
The teacher recalls feeling that the usual approach wasn't resonating with the students. She relied on her instincts, which had been honed by prior experience. -
What were the outcomes of my decision?
By adjusting her lesson on the spot, students became more engaged, and their understanding seemed to improve. However, she wonders if there are specific strategies she can adopt in the future to better gauge students' comprehension in real-time. -
What might I do differently next time?
The teacher decides to implement formative assessments more frequently throughout her lessons, allowing her to check for understanding and adjust her teaching methods proactively, rather than relying solely on intuition.
Through this reflective practice, the teacher not only acknowledges the effectiveness of her intuition but also creates a plan for incorporating structured checks for understanding in her future teaching. This process enhances her professional skills and improves the learning experience for her students.