Reflective Skills Research Articles

The use of reflective reports in higher education

ABSTRACT Reflective skills are very important for university students’ personal and professional development. One way of developing these skills is training students in writing reflective reports. The purpose of this study is to investigate the use of reflective reports in higher education and their role in developing reflective skills. Both MA and BA students at the Department of English Studies of Ibnou Zohr University were asked to write a reflective report on a weekly basis reflecting on the previous session of their course. The students were guided to use Gibbs’ (1988) model which encourages thinking systematically about experiences during a specific situation, event, or activity. The students received regular feedback on their reports. One objective of the study is to investigate the students’ perceptions of the role of reflective reports in developing reflective and critical thinking skills using a questionnaire. Another objective is to investigate the development of these skills by analyzing the content of the reports. Given the difference in the students’ levels, another objective is to compare the findings of the two groups to investigate whether the role of reflective reports is affected by the students’ level (undergraduate vs postgraduate). The study has significant implications for higher education in Morocco.

Educating emergent bilingual youth in high school: The promise of critical language and literacy education by Park, J. Y. (2023)

AbstractEducating Emergent Bilingual Youth in High School: The Promise of Critical Language and Literacy Educationby J. Y. Park narrates the educational experiences of seven emergent bilingual youth in English as a second language (ESL) classrooms. This book review underlines how Park uses critical language pedagogies in action to shed light on students' assets and challenge the deficit perspectives teachers and schools may have about them. Through these critical lenses, three ESL teachers and the emergent bilingual youth explore themes related to race, identity, and citizenship through effective pedagogical strategies such as dialogic problem‐posing, translanguaging through “poetry inside out,” the use of multimodal texts and student‐led research. As students embark on their learning journey, they develop their literacy, critical, and reflective skills, manifesting their agentive selves. The book also provides suggestions for emergent bilingual educators, schools, teacher education programs, researchers, and policymakers to disrupt deficit views of emergent bilinguals that keep them from seeing their full potential. In addition, it advocates for ESL teachers, who often are not supported at their schools, and for emergent bilinguals who should not and cannot leave their funds of knowledge and stories outside the classroom door.

Assessment as learning through digital portrayal

Pre-service teachers are expected to acquire the knowledge, skills, and competencies necessary to enter school effectively at the end of the teacher education program. Given the complexity of the teaching profession and the challenges associated with the induction phase, students should be supported in developing awareness of their exit professional profile. This paper aims to understand the experience of 206 last-year students engaged in an Assessment as Portrayal activity tasked with creating a multimedia representation of themselves as teacher-researchers. A qualitative analysis of the analytical sheets was conducted to understand the characteristics of the teacher-researcher they have acquired as professional posture, the overall benefits they have gained and the influence of educational technologies during the task development. The results highlight how, through Assessment as Learning, students activated self-assessment and metacognitive processes, leading them to develop an awareness of areas of the teaching profession often not considered relevant before, such as reflective and research skills. In this perspective, the approach of Assessment as Portrayal implemented through educational technologies, contributed to elaborating and conveying a unified self-representation as a teacher-researcher. Given the significant cognitive engagement required of students, further studies could explore using artificial intelligence to support students in activating metaphorical thinking.

Implementing an interactive oral task to assess undergraduate psychology students’ attainment of pre-professional competencies

Finding engaging and authentic ways to assess required competencies which are resistant to academic misconduct is a challenge for tertiary psychology education. While simulation-based tasks are commonly used to assess postgraduate students’ development of professional competencies, they are less commonly used in undergraduate programs to assess pre-professional competencies. Interactive oral assessments have been suggested to achieve authenticity while inhibiting academic misconduct, and to be feasible within an online learning environment. The current study presents students’ and markers’ perceptions of an interactive oral task implemented to assess fourth-year psychology students’ counselling and reflection skills. Results suggest that students and markers perceived the interactive oral task to be an authentic assessment of knowledge and skills required for future practice, which encouraged deeper learning than written assessments or exams, and was resistant to academic misconduct. Despite feeling anxious about the new assessment format, both students and markers reported finding the engaging nature of the task enjoyable and indicated that they would like to be involved in more interactive oral assessments in the future. The extent to which these findings reflect the current literature, and the role for interactive oral tasks in the innovative, authentic assessment of pre-professional competencies which promote academic integrity are discussed.

Integrative Learning Strategies for Enhancing Critical Thinking in Islamic Religious Education

This research employs a qualitative approach to explore integrative learning strategies aimed at enhancing critical thinking skills in Islamic Religious Education at the secondary school level in Padang, Indonesia. The study involved four teachers and 120 students from various classes to provide a comprehensive perspective. Given the increasing importance of critical thinking in education, especially in subjects that shape students' moral and ethical foundations, this research emphasizes the crucial role of developing these skills within Islamic Religious Education. Data were collected through direct classroom observations, in-depth interviews with teachers and students to capture their experiences and insights on the strategies used, and a detailed analysis of relevant teaching materials. The findings reveal that group discussions create a dynamic environment where students can exchange ideas, broaden perspectives, and develop critical arguments. Case study analyses enable students to connect religious concepts to real-life situations, reinforcing the practical significance of religious teachings. Problem-solving activities promote logical, systematic, and reflective thinking skills, especially when addressing complex moral and ethical dilemmas. The study also highlights that these strategies not only enhance students' critical thinking but also increase their active engagement in learning, deepen their understanding of religious teachings, and foster a reflective approach toward moral values. This research offers an in-depth understanding of the effectiveness of integrative learning strategies in Islamic Religious Education and underscores their relevance in preparing students to meet the demands of modern education, which prioritizes critical thinking skills.

Effect of Project Based Learning Method on Students ‘Academic Performance in Mathematics Subject in Rwanda

Purpose: The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effect of project-based learning (PBL) on students’ academic performance in mathematics at TTC Muhanga, located in Muhanga District, Southern Province. Methodology: A descriptive research design was employed, involving 889 participants, including 273 student teachers, 23 teachers, 1 dean, and 1 principal. The study ensured reliability through test-retest and Cronbach’s alpha methods, while content validity was assessed using the Content Validity Index (CVI). Data were gathered through questionnaires and interviews and analyzed using SPSS. Findings: The findings reveal a generally positive perception of PBL practices. Collaborative projects were particularly well received, with 73.9% of teachers agreeing that they enhance communication (mean score: 4.61). Hands-on activities were also endorsed by 69.56% of participants (mean score: 4.48), while technology integration received less consensus, with 60.87% agreeing on its effectiveness (mean score: 4.30). Reflection and presentation skills were highlighted as especially impactful, with 78.26% of respondents strongly agreeing (mean score: 4.65). The study further demonstrates that both collaboration (r = .904, β = .500) and technology use (r = .677, β = .553) significantly contribute to increased student engagement and improved academic performance. Unique Contribution to Theory, Practice and Policy: Based on these findings, the study recommends enhancing technology integration within PBL, promoting continuous professional development for teachers, emphasizing the importance of collaboration in PBL activities, and increasing opportunities for students to engage in reflection and develop presentation skills.

The study of newly-qualified teachers’ psychological well-being and personal reflection

Introduction. The article examines the peculiarities of psychological well-being and satisfaction with the profession of novice teachers in connection with personal reflection. The purpose of the study is to reveal the specifics of psychological well-being and personal reflection of teachers at the initial stage of professional development. Materials and Methods. The study follows a systematic approach and the concept of psychological well-being (K Riff). In order to achieve the purpose of the research, the authors used theoretical (analysis, comparison, generalization, systematization) and empirical (tests) methods, as well as methods of statistical information processing. To collect relevant data, the methods were presented by means of a Google form via an online resource. The research sample consisted of 162 newly-qualified teachers from Omsk and the Omsk region whose work experience ranged between 6 months and 5 years. Results. The authors of the article obtained the following results: - analyzed and summarized Russian and international research investigations on issues of psychological well-being, the level of development of reflection and novice teachers satisfaction with their profession; - the empirical results of the study are presented, which reflect the priority indicators of psychological well-being, the level and types of personal reflection, the level of satisfaction with the professional development of newly-qualified teachers; the specifics of psychological well-being and personal reflection of teachers are revealed, the types of teachers at the initial stage of professional development are described. Conclusions. The specifics of psychological well-being and personal reflection of novice teachers are determined by difficulties in managing the environment, building interaction with colleagues and self-acceptance, readiness for personal growth and autonomy, and there is also insufficient development of reflection skills, in particular, reflection on communication and real activity, which affects satisfaction with professional activities. The types of novice teachers have been identified depending on the specifics of psychological well-being, the level of development and type of personal reflection, and satisfaction with profession.

Implementation of Active Learning Methods in Islamic Religious Education to Improve Students' Critical Thinking Skills in Schools

This research aims to examine the effectiveness of implementing active learning methods in Islamic Religious Education (PAI) as an effort to improve students' critical thinking skills at school. This research uses a quantitative approach with a quasi-experimental design, involving students from several secondary schools as samples. Data was collected through critical thinking skills tests before and after implementing active learning methods. The research results show that the application of active learning methods significantly improves students' critical thinking skills in the PAI context. These findings indicate that this method is effective in creating a learning environment that supports the development of students' analytical, evaluation and reflection skills on religious values, as well as their relevance in everyday life.

DEMOCRATIC EDUCATION: IMPLICATIONS FOR TEACHING WORK

The school curriculum plays a fundamental role in the civic education of students, directly influencing their skills and social values. Through formal education, the curriculum contributes to the development of critical, reflective and participatory skills, necessary for conscious action in society. Civic education involves not only theoretical knowledge, but also the construction of practices and attitudes that promote democratic coexistence and respect for diversity. Thus, education focused on citizenship must consider cultural, ethical and political aspects, promoting the active engagement of students. The general objective of this article is to analyze how the school curriculum contributes to the civic education of students. The specific objectives are: - to identify the pedagogical practices present in the curriculum that foster citizenship; - to verify the presence of content that encourages critical thinking and social participation; - to evaluate the importance of interdisciplinarity in the construction of a civic education. The research problem that guides this study is: In what way does the school curriculum contribute to the civic education of students? The methodology used was bibliographic, based on a literature review of works that address the relationship between school curriculum and citizenship. The results indicate that a curriculum that integrates democratic principles, social values, and practices of mutual respect favors the development of critical and participatory citizens. The discussion reinforces the need for an interdisciplinary approach that takes into account the diversity and multiple realities of students. It is concluded that the school curriculum must be constantly reviewed and adapted to meet social demands and to educate individuals capable of acting ethically and responsibly in society, fully exercising their rights and duties as citizens.

Faculty Building for Personalized Medicine and Care

Personalized medicine and care always places the patient at the center and requires psychosocial interprofessional skills. Using the example of personalized care, which is conceived as clinical, biopsychosocial work in an interdisciplinary, care-relevant manner, it is shown why comprehensive and differentiated abilities are required for this activity. According to grounded theory methodology, an interview-study with several experts in the field was carried out in a cyclical research design. As a result, problem definitions and solution concepts suggested to focus existing and development of new curricula or curriculum elements, to focus training processes and students’ qualification profiles for the respective personell-, organizational- development and faculty building. The qualification profile, definitions of learning objectives, as well as their effective implementation and didactic mediation possibilities are empirically reviewed and presented in an overview and exemplary manner. The training is designed to be practice-relevant, patient-centered with sufficient personal reflection skills, which are conveyed through teaching in continuous small groups. Selection procedures and internships take into account the requirements of psychosocial care and academic standards. Workplace-based examinations and case-oriented feedback develop the trainees into professional workers. A priori necessary basic competencies are presented and discussed in order to further elaborate empirical research and curricular strategies. Therefore the respective faculty building can be derived.

REFLECTION IN THE STRUCTURE OF INNOVATIVE COMPETENCE OF TEACHERS IN GENERAL SECONDARY EDUCATION INSTITUTIONS

The issue of the article concerns the topical issue of innovative competence and its components. The author aimed to characterize one of the components of this education, which refers to the ability to analyze the effectiveness and efficiency of pedagogical activity, as well as to adjust it as necessary. It is about the skill of reflection as one of the leading features of a teacher with highly developed innovative competence, since the creation and implementation of innovations requires regular analysis not only of the process of implementing something new in the educational process but also of observing and evaluating the personality of the teacher as a specialist who carries out innovative activities. Thanks to the use of such methods of scientific research as system-structural and system-functional analysis, generalization and systematization of theoretical aspects of the topic, observation, and study of the products of pedagogical activity, the author conducted a review of scientific literature regarding the essence of innovative competence of a teacher of a general secondary education institution, its structure and key characteristics, in particular, reflection skills. In addition, the publication provides information on reflective competence, which, on the same level as innovative competence, occupies a prominent place in the system of professional characteristics of a teacher regulated by normative documents. The unifying feature for both is the skill of reflection, therefore the article also presents the views of domestic scientists on the essence of this phenomenon and methods of its development and improvement. In addition, practical tools (reflective questionnaires, tables; reflective essays; pedagogical portfolios, etc.) are characterized, which contribute to the formation and improvement of the ability to reflect on one's pedagogical activity, in particular innovative ones. The publication analyzes fragments of reflective essays from teachers of general secondary education institutions who took the experimental course "Innovative aspects of the teacher's activity". This made it possible to conclude the reflexive competence of teachers, the development of reflection skills, as well as to substantiate reflection as a component of innovative competence.

Facilitating Capability: iSAP – A Novel Pedagogical Intervention

This study explores the educational impact, as perceived by students, of an innovative, online context-rich case-based learning assessment and reflection framework known as integrating Science and Practice (iSAP). The study draws on a cross-sectional study conducted from 2018 to 2020 for students in units of study where an iSAP case was used as one assessment method. The voluntary survey was administered via the university’s learning management system at the end of each academic year (Semester 2). The 19 self-rating questions were presented as counts and percentages. The difference in item responses between undergraduate and postgraduate students was explored using chi-squared tests. We observed that the majority of students perceived iSAP as a well-rounded framework that helped them apply knowledge and skills to real-life situations, improved their understanding of study material and helped them develop evidence-based reasoning, critical thinking and reflective analysis skills. We also observed that postgraduate students, compared to their undergraduate counterparts, were more likely to agree with statements related to the authenticity of the iSAP case as well as the benefits of iSAP to individual learning, further engagement in research to extend their knowledge and development of their evidence-based reasoning skills and critical thinking skills. We conclude that iSAP is an innovative case-based learning and assessment approach to facilitate preparation for professional and clinical capability. Further research is required to determine the impact of student professional maturity and how this may impact upon students’ perception and adaptation of the reflective component of the iSAP framework.

Unveiling the Core Competencies in Neuroscience Nursing Within the Context of Italy: A Qualitative Phenomenological Analysis.

Background: In 2008, the European Association of Neuroscience Nursing (EANN) initiated the NeuroBlend™ project, which aimed to delineate the roles and competencies of neuroscience nurses across Europe. This project resulted in the development of the European Competence Profile (ECP), intended to standardize educational pathways and professional recognition for this specialized field. Aim: This study examines the relevance of neuroscience nursing practices to the competencies outlined in NeuroBlend™ across different Italian care settings, including multiple sclerosis, pediatric neurosurgery, pediatric neurology, Alzheimer's disease, and substance addiction. Methods: A phenomenological approach was employed, utilizing focus groups to gather the perspectives of nurses on the competencies defined by the NeuroBlend™ model. The focus groups were conducted from May 2022 to September 2022. The data collected from the focus groups were analyzed using thematic analysis. Results: Thirty nurses participated in the focus groups. Thematic analysis revealed the core competencies, such as communication, empathy, flexibility, and reflective skills, as critical in all care settings. The main themes that emerged were relationships with patients and families, personalized care, and continuity of care. Conclusions: The competencies outlined in the NeuroBlend™ framework are vital to the role of neuroscience nurses in the settings studied and remain highly relevant in the context of Italian healthcare.

Transferable Skills And Graduate Attributes: Analysis of health services management students’ reflections on an industry-based placement

Purpose: Work Integrated Learning (WIL) supports learners to acquire transferable skills and graduate attributes for employability through placements in settings aligned with their future profession. The purpose of this paper is to explore, student reflections on the attainment of transferable skills and university graduate attributes on health service management (HSM) work integrated learning placements in one Australian University. Design/methodology/approach: The study used data collected from e-portfolios from two cohorts of students who completed placements in the health industry. Structured e-portfolios recorded student reflections, these were analysed both quantitatively and qualitatively. To analyse the reflections, content analysis and mapping of narratives to transferable skills and University graduate attributes was used to evidence their attainment by learners on placement. Findings: The data demonstrated that students attained transferable skills and university attributes and reflected upon them in their e-portfolios. However, not all transferable skills and attributes were evidenced in student portfolios. Ethical thoughts and actions, respect and capability with First Peoples, citizenship and social responsibility, negotiation and conflict resolution, research and organizational membership were not comprehensively demonstrated. Reflective skills and learning how to reflect could be further emphasised and practiced within the curricula. The outcomes of the study can be used to strengthen the focus of reflective e-portfolios, inform the development of HSM curricula and support academics teaching in WIL programs to further clarify expectations on reflection. Originality: This paper is of interest to Universities aiming to equip graduates with transferable skills and the attributes to thrive in complex and rapidly changing work environments. The study identified further research opportunities that could inform the design and content of e-portfolios to demonstrate the skills attained on placement.

A Didactic Intervention On Written Discourse And Rhetorical Patterns

Reading comprehension skills in EFL is vital for university students. Particularly, being aware of the writer’s intention by means of discourse patters allows students to interact with the written text. Therefore, this research paper examines the implementation of a Discourse Analysis perspective in an Intermediate general EFL lesson aimed to enhance both critical thinking and reading skills by identifying the use of language patterns in written texts. 20 students form an Upper-Intermediate English course that studies a BA in English at a public University situated in the center of the state of Veracruz Mexico were the participants. Qualitative classroom research approach was chosen to implement a didactic intervention aimed at enhancing students communicative and reflective skills on the impact that social media has had on their lives. Results revealed that students were able to identify the meaning, and the relationship discourse markers establish between the written ideas and the meaning the writer wants to transmit. Particularly, students were able to reflect on the implications of social media use on communication, information access, marketing, and self-perception of its users. The didactic implications of the lesson focused on discourse patterns use indicate that such teaching perspective can significantly improve students’ critical thinking and communicative abilities. Therefore, it can be considered this lesson as an innovative proposal for enhancing the development of communicative skills in EFL students.

Developing modelling competencies in pre-service mathematics teachers through reflective thinking skills

Background: Ghana’s commitment to quality education has been reflected in its goal of providing equal access to high-quality education, leading to the reforms of the New Common Core Mathematics Curriculum for Basic Schools. The study explored the integration of mathematical modelling using reflective thinking skills, which are not currently core competencies in Ghanaian basic school curriculum.Aim: The study examined the modelling proficiency of pre-service mathematics teachers by assessing their reflective thinking abilities in a modelling laboratory context.Setting: The study focussed on pre-service mathematics teachers from two education colleges in Ghana.Methods: Using purposive sampling to select participants, a quasi-experimental design with pre- and post-test interventions was employed. Data were analysed through content and inferential analysis, supplemented by interviews.Findings: The findings indicated that the comparison group lacked prior knowledge of modelling problems and struggled with comprehension tasks. In contrast, the experimental group successfully translated real-world problems into mathematical models.Conclusion: Providing pre-service mathematics teachers access to a modelling laboratory and modelling-eliciting activities was essential for developing future modellers. This approach would enhance their effectiveness in teaching foundational mathematics in Ghanaian education.Contribution: This study advocated for re-orienting the mathematics curriculum at both Basic schools and Colleges of Education in Ghana to include mathematical modelling and reflective thinking skills as core components.

Using Self-Regulated Learning supported with Artificial Intelligence (AI) Chatbots to Develop EFL student teachers' Self-expression and Reflective Writing Skills

Using Self-Regulated Learning supported with Artificial Intelligence (AI) Chatbots to Develop EFL student teachers' Self-expression and Reflective Writing Skills

Meningkatkan Kemampuan Berpikir Kritis Melalui PBL pada Materi Sepuluh Perintah Allah Fase B Kelas 4 SD N 3 Sijambur

This study aims to enhance students' critical thinking skills through the implementation of Problem-Based Learning (PBL) on the Ten Commandments material for 4th-grade students in phase B at SD N 3 Sijambur. PBL encourages students to explore and solve contextual problems related to the understanding and application of the Ten Commandments in daily life. This method promotes critical thinking, collaborative learning, and the development of analytical and reflective skills. The results of the study show a significant improvement in students' critical thinking abilities, particularly in identifying problems, formulating relevant solutions, and evaluating information logically. Thus, the application of PBL in this material contributes positively to the development of students' critical thinking skills

Effect of concept mapping education on clinical decision-making in nursing students: A randomized controlled trial

Clinical decision-making is a critical and essential skill in clinical care. Nurses' proficiency in proper clinical decision-making significantly improves the quality of nursing care. As an active learning approach, concept mapping education plays a vital role in deep learning and applying critical thinking skills in clinical decision-making. This study aimed to investigate the impact of concept mapping on clinical decision-making in nursing students. The study was an experimental design with two groups, where participants were randomly assigned to the test group (25 students) or the control group (25 students). Data were collected using the clinical decision-making questionnaire. Based on relevant literature, the test group participated in eight concept mapping sessions lasting 60 to 90 minutes each, while the control group received traditional lecture-based education. Covariance analysis, excluding the effect of the pre-test, showed no significant difference (P=0.86, eta=0.01). Still, a paired t-test revealed a significant difference in the test group before and after the intervention (P<0.01). The results demonstrated that concept mapping education enhances clinical decision-making. Therefore, this teaching method, which promotes students' reflection, creativity, and decision-making skills, is recommended in nursing education. Concept mapping is an effective, innovative, and cost-efficient educational strategy.

THE NATURE, CHARACTERISTICS AND IMPORTANCE OF REFLECTIVE PRACTICE IN FOREIGN LANGUAGE LEARNING AND TEACHING

The following article discusses the characteristics and nature of reflective skills in foreign language teaching and learning. The formation and development of reflective abilities focuses on planning, analyzing the educational process, working on mistakes, and working on difficulties and problems that may arise in the future process of education.