Basic theory about reflective practice has been attributed to Donald Schön, who suggested that the formal learning and theories gained in preparation for practice may not be so useful when it comes to problem solving in real-life.

Schön suggested that when something new or unanticipated occurs, a person reacts in two separate acts of reflective practice. Firstly, there is an immediate ‘reflection in action’, such as solving some acute problem by using past experience, knowledge and modifying behaviour.

The second reflection takes place later and it is this reflection that considers the situation itself, what occurred and what may have caused it or added to the problem, as well as whether or not the best course of action was taken and whether or not this event needs to be taken into consideration for the future. Schön argued that this double act of reflection is important so that professionals “develop wisdom and artistry in their practice”.

Once you've completed this module, move onto:
Part two: Teaching and learning in the workplace
But be sure to click next to complete this module first.