More on Reflective Journaling – A Tool for Learning and Source of Evaluative Data

Reflection can be defined as “a process of internally examining and exploring an issue of concern which creates and clarifies meaning in self-terms and often results in a changed perspective.”

For this discussion, we use a simple 3-stage model to explore reflection:
Stage 1 involves becoming aware of a situation or event through uncomfortable or positive thoughts. This stage is critical to reflection; without it, reflection cannot happen.
Stage 2 involves critical analysis of the situation, bringing to bear relevant experiences and knowledge and through the acquisition of new knowledge resulting from the analysis stage. This stage requires critical thinking and evaluation. Self-examination is demonstrated with a growing sense of self-awareness.
Stage 3, Learning, involves the development of a new perspective – based on the awareness and analysis from the preceding two stages. This new perspective may be characterized by affective, cognitive, and behavioral changes.
Reflective learning journals are an important tool in translating theory into practical action, i.e. praxis.
Evaluation Take Away: Qualitative and quantitative analysis over the course of the reflective journaling process can yield powerful data regarding the program and underlying processes.
Obsidian Communications has developed a modular, online journaling system that supports reflective journaling – including the capture and subsequent analysis of qualitative and quantitative data. For more information and a live demonstration of this platform, go to Online Journal Application / Prototype.
Drawn From: Journaling: A Learning Tool for Project Management Training and Team-Building Reference.