Reflective Practice in Teaching

Reflective teaching is pivotal. It cannot be abandoned or neglected.

This is because it is a reviewing moment for all teachers. In reflective practice, we take a step back to think and re-examine our actions and practices. It is a time we stop to check if they are in line with the standard. A moment devoid of selfishness, a time to tell ourselves the truth without self-pity. This is because boosting authentic learning is a priority.

With reflective practice, we critically and constructively reassess our minds, beliefs and actions to check if they are in alignment with the standard classroom practice.

Often, it appears that we teachers rush teaching, we try as much as possible to meet up with the targets and as well finish the curriculum. Sometimes the rush to meet targets and finish the curriculum shift our focus from the main thing which is maximum progress. Is teaching about meeting targets and finishing the curriculum or ensuring maximum progress? I leave us with that to answer.

Let me state this clearly, there is nothing wrong with meeting the targets and covering the curriculum, of course, we should. What I am saying is that in the midst of all, we should endeavour to pause and reflect on our practices. Reflecting on our practices will help us to know where we are to determine where we are going.

Remember the quote

In teaching, there is nothing more important than reflective practice. Imagine what it look will like not to take a moment to evaluate our actions. Imagine what it will look like to continuously run without stopping. That is what we do when we don't reflect. It is time to shift the paradigm from what is obtainable to what is essential. Reflective teaching is calling, we should not hesitate to answer.

How important is reflective practice? Why is it a must-have for teachers?- This is because it is a reviewing moment for all teachers. A time to connect our actions and practices with the progress of our learners. With this practice, we are responsible, confident, and self-aware of the factors that can promote and prevent learning and can solve problems. It also helps us to be engaged in life-long learning.

 Is reflective practice doable? How can teachers apply reflective practice?

To apply reflective practice, the cycle from Cambridge Assessment International Education worked for me.

 

For more information on Reflective practice in teaching, the research behind reflective teaching: Kolb's and Gibbs models, click on the link below

Cambridge Assessment International Education