The Early Career Framework states that teachers should learn that... . Reflective practice, supported by feedback from and observation of experienced colleagues, professional debate, and learning from educational research, is also likely to support improvement. Professional Behaviours (Standard 8 – Fulfil wider professional responsibilities)
Teaching is an art that evolves and flourishes when nurtured by the principles of reflective practice. In the pursuit of educational excellence, teachers must embrace the transformative power of self-reflection, feedback from experienced colleagues, participation in professional debate, and engagement with educational research. This blog post delves into the enriching realm of reflective practice, demonstrating how it, when supported by collaborative learning, can serve as a catalyst for continuous improvement in the teaching profession.
The Essence of Reflective Practice
Reflective practice is a dynamic and intentional process that involves looking inward to critically examine one's own teaching methods, beliefs, and experiences (Schön, 1983). By engaging in reflective practice, teachers gain valuable insights into their pedagogical approaches, fostering a culture of continuous learning and improvement (Larrivee, 2000). However, the effectiveness of reflective practice is heightened when complemented by external inputs, such as feedback from experienced colleagues, participation in professional debate, and a robust foundation in educational research.
1. Feedback from Experienced Colleagues
One of the cornerstones of reflective practice is the valuable input derived from experienced colleagues. Peer observation and constructive feedback provide fresh perspectives, helping teachers identify blind spots and areas for improvement (Hill, 2013). Collaborative reflection sessions, where teachers share insights and strategies, create a supportive environment for professional growth (Farrell, 2007).
Studies by Hattie and Timperley (2007) emphasize the impact of feedback on teacher professional development. Constructive feedback not only validates effective teaching practices but also serves as a catalyst for change, encouraging educators to experiment with new approaches and refine their instructional methods.
2. Professional Debate
Engaging in professional debate widens the horizon of reflective practice by exposing teachers to diverse viewpoints, methodologies, and educational philosophies. Debate challenges assumptions, encourages critical thinking, and invites educators to question and refine their approaches (Burbank & Kauchak, 2003).
Debates within a professional community provide a platform for educators to share their experiences, insights, and concerns. This exchange of ideas fosters a culture of collective reflection, where the wisdom of the group enriches the individual's understanding of effective teaching practices (Loughran, 2014).
3. Learning from Educational Research
Educational research serves as a cornerstone for evidence-based reflective practice. Teachers who ground their reflections in educational research are better equipped to make informed decisions about their teaching strategies (Cordingley et al., 2015). The integration of research findings into reflective practice bridges the gap between theory and application, ensuring that educators draw on the latest evidence to inform their pedagogical choices.
Well-established research also provides a theoretical framework for understanding the complexities of teaching and learning. This theoretical underpinning enhances the depth and sophistication of reflective practice, enabling teachers to explore the underlying principles that shape effective educational interventions (Larrivee, 2000).
Practical Strategies for Implementation
1. Establishing a Feedback Culture: Foster a culture of constructive feedback within the school community. Encourage regular peer observations, followed by collaborative feedback sessions. Create a safe space for teachers to share their experiences and seek advice from colleagues (Van Nuland, Keane, & Van der Rijst, 2012).
2. Participation in Professional Learning Communities (PLCs): Facilitate the formation of PLCs where teachers can engage in professional debate. These communities provide a structured platform for discussing teaching practices, sharing resources, and collectively addressing challenges. The collaborative nature of PLCs nurtures reflective dialogue and promotes continuous improvement (Hord, 1997).
3. Integration of Educational Research: Incorporate educational research into professional development activities. Organize seminars, workshops, or reading groups focused on recent research findings. Encourage teachers to critically evaluate how these insights can inform and enhance their own teaching practices (Cordingley et al., 2015).
4. Utilizing Reflective Journals: Encourage teachers to maintain reflective journals where they document their experiences, challenges, and successes. This written reflection provides a tangible record that can be revisited over time, serving as a valuable resource for personal and collaborative growth (Farrell, 2015).
5. Peer Learning Networks: Establish peer learning networks that connect teachers across different schools or districts. These networks can facilitate the exchange of ideas, experiences, and research-informed practices, creating a broader community of reflective practitioners (Harris & Jones, 2010).
In the intricate tapestry of teaching, reflective practice emerges as a guiding light, illuminating the path to continuous improvement. The integration of feedback from experienced colleagues, participation in professional debate, and a commitment to learning from educational research elevates reflective practice to new heights. As teachers embark on this journey of introspection and collaboration, they contribute not only to their own professional growth but also to the broader evolution of educational practices.
References:
Burbank, M. D., & Kauchak, D. (2003). HEART-START: Professional development and mentoring for novice teachers in an urban context. The Elementary School Journal, 104(5), 409-427.
Cordingley, P., Bell, M., Rundell, B., & Evans, D. (2015). The impact of collaborative CPD on classroom teaching and learning. Research Papers in Education, 30(3), 296-329.
Farrell, T. S. (2007). Reflective practice in action: 80 reflection breaks for busy teachers. Corwin Press.
Farrell, T. S. (2015). Reflective language teaching: From research to practice. Bloomsbury Publishing.
Harris, A., & Jones, M. (2010). Professional learning communities and system improvement. Improving Schools, 13(2), 172-181.
Hattie, J., & Timperley, H. (2007). The power of feedback. Review of Educational Research, 77(1), 81-112.
Hill, H. C. (2013). Learning in the teacher workplace: Evidence from a teacher development intervention in sub-Saharan Africa. Stanford Center for International Development Working Paper No. 483.
Hord, S. M. (1997). Professional learning communities: Communities of continuous inquiry and improvement. Southwest Educational Development Laboratory.
Larrivee, B. (2000). Transforming teaching practice: Becoming the critically reflective teacher. Reflective Practice, 1(3), 293-307.
Loughran, J. (2014). Professionally Developing as a Teacher Educator. Journal of the Scholarship of Teaching and Learning, 14(5), 12-20.
Schön, D. A. (1983). The reflective practitioner: How professionals think in action. Basic Books.
Van Nuland, S. E., Keane, T. P., & Van der Rijst, R. M. (2012). Peer review in teacher evaluation: A practical tool for professional development. Educational Measurement: Issues and Practice, 31(2), 10-18.