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CAR: Concept, action & reflection: Models of reflection

An interdisciplinary Guide

Models of reflection

Which model resonates with you?

Schön's 'reflection on action' and 'reflection in action'

Reflection in Action
  • Experiencing
  • Thinking on your feet
  • Thinking about what to do next
  • Acting straight away
 Reflection on Action
  • Thinking about something that has happened
  • Thinking what you would do differently next time
  • Taking your time

Gibbs' reflective cycle

This model will assit you to think through each phase of your learning activity. Use each of these headings to structure your reflections.

Gibbs' reflective cycle

Kaufman's doing sociology model

Johns' model for structured reflection

Preparatory phase

  • Bring the mind home

Descriptive phase

  • Focus on a description of an experience that seems significant ... (balance between experiences that were affirming and ... problematic)

Reflective phase

  • What issues are significant to pay attention to?
  • How were others feeling and why did they feel that way?
  • How was I feeling and what made me feel that way?
  • What was I trying to achieve and did I respond effectively?
  • What were the consequences of my action ...?
  • To what extent did I act for the best and in-tune with my values?
  • What knowledge did or might have informed me?
  • How does this situation connect with previous experiences?
  • What assumptions govern my practice and what factors influence the way I feel, think and respond to the particular situation?

Anticipatory phase

  • How might I reframe the situation in order to respond more effectively?
  • What would be the consequences of responding differently ...?
  • What factors might constrain me responding in new ways?
  • How do I now feel about this experience?


Insight phase

  • What insights have I gained?

 

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