An introduction to what reflection is.

Reflection is the thinking process that breaks down aspects of experience or information in order to develop, implement and continue a progressive route towards learning. Boud, D Rosemary, K and Walker, D (1995 p.52) mention that reflection can be fostered through written format while Thompson, N and Thompson, S (2008 p.55) note that contexts such as personal reflective space, dyadic reflective space and group learning space broaden opportunity for personal development. Reflection is paramount to effective teaching, and Jeff Nixon notes that teachers should review areas of education and methods of teaching every so often Cole, M (2003, p.120). Successful and continuous professional development increases proficiency when monitoring of actions and metacognitive activity takes place through reflection according to  Fogavty, R (1994). Reflection gives opportunity for response towards positive and negative experiences. It provides assurance that learners are equipped by practitioners for attainment within education because
reflection-in-action and reflection-on-action causes teachers to pay more attention to what they say and do Burnaford, G, Hobson, D and Joseph, F (2009 p.9). Many terms used relating to reflective practise within education convey its importance for both the learner and practitioner Harvard, G and Hodkinson, P (1994, p.120).

 

References

Boud, D, Rosemary, K and Walker, D (1995) Reflection: Turning experience into learning, USA, Nichols Publishing Company.

Burnaford, G, Hobson, D and Joseph, F (2009) Teachers Doing Research, Oxon, Routledge.

Cole, M (2003) Professional Values and Practice for Teachers and Student Teachers, London, David Fulton Publishers Ltd.

Fogavty, R (1994) Teaching for Metacognitive Reflection, United States of America, IRI/SkyLight Training and Publishing, Inc.

Harvard, G and Hodkinson, P (1994) Action and Reflection in Teacher Education, New Jersey, Albex Publishing Corporation.

Thompson, N and Thompson, S (2008), The Critically Reflective Practitioner, New York, Palgrave Macmillan.