What is Reflection in learning?

Learning Activity What is reflection in learning? Purpose: • To assist participants to develop their understanding of models of reflection, and how reflection can enhance learning. Learning outcomes: By the end of this activity, participants will be able to: • Discuss ways in which reflection can contribute to learning • Reflect on how this fits into their own learning preferences • Consider ways of encouraging reflection with their own learners Resources needed: • Books / articles relating to learning and reflection in hard copy • Computers with internet access for online articles / websites / resources • Media files / videos about reflection to stimulate thinking on the theme of reflection (e.g. May’s video) Activity: NOTE: You can use sections of this activity, over a number of sessions, or run it as an integrated activity over one session. Part 1 – Individual work • Participants write down their own definition of reflection in learning, and what ways they believe reflection can support learning. Part 2 – Group work There are various ways you could structure the group activity as pairs / groups, including the following: • go off and research different definitions / models of reflection in learning, then present back to the rest of the group • Share definitions and summarise – in writing; verbally; visually (i.e. create a visual image what you mean by reflection in learning) to rest of group Part 3 – Plenary Share the results of Parts 1 and 2, and consider: • The potential advantages and disadvantages of reflection in learning for participants as teachers • Way in which participants can enable their own learners to use reflection