Self Reflection Blog

Each student undergoing placement work as part of the course module was advised to use reflective models in order to produce a blog which reveals what feelings you were experiencing before and after each placement session. When I researched these reflective models I understood the benefits of employing these models throughout my placement. The utilisation of these models will enable me to become aware of what were the good qualities I already possessed and the areas which needed improvement. In addition, as I was recording this blog throughout my placement I could look at how I have progressed throughout the 60 hours and set my targets for improvement with each session. 

There was three reflective models I employed until I realised which reflective model was suited most to me.

Gibbs reflective model (1988)

 

 Graham Gibbs developed his reflective cycle (Gibbs 1988). This model suggests how a full structured analysis of a situation could take place using prompt questions at each stage. As this model was based upon each stage of David A. Kolb’s experiential cycle, the next reflective model I utilised was Kolb’s learning cycle (1984).

Kolbs Learning Cycle (1984)

 

Kolb’s reflective model highlights the concept of experiential learning and focuses on developing information into knowledge. I would use this after the event has occurred where I would reflect on the experience, gaining a general understanding of the concepts encountered during the experience and then testing these general understandings on a new situation. In this way the knowledge that is gained from a situation is continuously applied and reapplied building on a practitioner’s prior experiences and knowledge.

 

Johns Model of reflection

 

 

 

 

John’s model is based on five cue questions which enable you to break down your experience and reflect on the process and outcomes. John (1995) used seminal work by Carper (1978) as the basis for his model exploring aesthetics, personal knowing, ethics and empirics and then encouraging the reflective practitioner to explore how this has changed and improved their practice.

Which reflective model did I find most useful

Out of the three reflective models I looked at employing throughout my placement I found Gibbs model of reflection the best for utilisation as Gibbs incorporates short specific questions without over complicating the reflection process. Therefore when reflecting I will be describing what happened, how I felt throughout the placement and whether or not I thought it was a good or bad experience. I will then make sense of the situation and consider what else I could have done and plan how I could include this into my next session.

References

 Carper B (1978) Fundamental patterns of knowing in nursing. Advances in Nursing Science. 1, 1, 13-23.

Gibbs, G. (1988) Learning by Doing: A guide to teaching and learning methods. Oxford: Further Education Unit, Oxford Brookes University.

Johns C (1995) Framing learning through reflection within Carper’s fundamental ways of knowing in nursing. Journal of Advanced Nursing. 22, 2, 226-234

Sheilds R.W., D. Aaron, and S. Wall (2001). What is Kolb's model of experiential education, and where does it come from?, Questions and Answers on Adult Education, the Ontario Institute for Studies in Education, University of Toronto.