Reflective practice provides students with the opportunity to evaluate their own experiences to improve the way they learn. It provides the opportunity to objectively reflect on their progress and critically evaluate their development. Through reflection, students learn to regulate their own learning and become more self-directed and independent learners. It helps them to identify gaps in their learning and improve their development and progress.

NOTE:  The definition of reflective practice can vary. The following articles offer an outline of possible definitions:

Koole et. al (2011) Factors confounding the assessment of reflection: a critical review

Man et al. (2009) Reflection and reflective practice in health professions education: a systematic review

The following diagram presents a model of common elements describing the reflection process  (Koole et. al, 2011):

Students can engage in reflective practice the following ways:

Create an ePortfolio: An ePortfolio is an electronic collection of evidence that shows a learning journey over time. It allows for a reflection of the student as a person undergoing continuous personal development. ePortfolios can be created using the following technologies:

Would you like to know more about reflective practice? The Learning and Teaching Unit offers further information via the following links:

1. Self-assessment
2. ePortfolios