Reflective learning

During todays lecture we looked at some of the theorists who came up with their own ideas on what they individually believe are the stages of reflective learning are. We also looked at Bubbl.us and looked at how to brainstorm by making mind maps. After this lesson I thought it was necessary to research what it means to be a reflective learning and make my own mind map of the key terms relating to this. I read what Kolb and Deweys theories are to help with gaining a better understanding of what it means to be reflective learner.

Being a reflective learner means one is able to think by themselves on information they have been given. By thinking about information that’s been given to you, you are able to gain a better understanding and knowledge on it. The information shared may be stored so that you are able to review, analyse and then evaluate the information. You can then evaluate your own thoughts by identifying the positives and the negatives and your own opinions on why you think this. You are able to explore your learning further by finding out other information you wish to find out and by doing this you gain a better understanding of the information so you will find it easier to remember it. By storing the information through reflective this information will always be there so you can go back and review the information when you wish to. Also by doing this you can improve on what you learnt and change your opinions and views if needed and you may discuss why you chose to do this.

Both Dewey and Kolb both came up with their own ideas on what it means to be a reflective learner and the different stages there are. Dewey believes that there are five stages whereas Kolb makes up the learning cycle that consists of four stages. After looking at the two theorists it can be seen that they both explain reflective thinking through stages but it seems a lot easier to understand Kolbs ideas other than Dewey's.

Here is the mind map I developed showing what it means to be a reflective learner.

Here is a video from YouTube, Explaining what the purpose of reflective practice is and why we use it.




Boud, D. et al (eds.) (1985). Reflection. Turning experience into learning, London: Kogan.  - 170 pages, a good collection of readings which examine the nature of reflection. The early chapters make particular use of Dewey and Kolb.