Reflective Learning

Reflective learning can develop critical thinking, self awareness and analytical skills within an individual. It is very important to both staff and student. However, for students it may help them understand how theories can be applied into practice. It can help demonstrate to individuals what worked or didn't work, what may need to be done differently or how individuals may need to develop their behaviour and practice.
Reflective learning may be captured and assessed through work in various forms, including: a
reflective portfolio, log, essay, journal or diary. These provide a structure to capture thoughts and recollections, forming a record that can be reviewed to gain further insight or guidance or record new learning, providing evidence of personal development.
A learning log for example is a simple but effective way of getting to grips with the idea of reflection. I could set ten minutes aside each week to write a learning log (every Friday afternoon). A log is similar to a diary or portfolio, but it has set headings that encourage us to record key
events/experiences since the last log, our reactions to them, and then reflect on them to draw out conclusions about what happened and determine any different actions you should take.

Here are four things to record in a simple learning log:

1. The experience/situation/event
2. Your initial reactions to it
3. What you did
4. What you learned from the experience/situation/event