This is the focused analysis of previous occurrences to solve teaching concerns and improve teaching methods. Using reflective thinking can be a useful way of getting learners to analyze their own ideas. In 2019, I developed a grade calculator. It implies an active and constant assessment of a piece of information or belief, the reasons they support the information or belief and other conclusions they can draw by thinking about it. In 2019, I developed a high school GPA calculator.
Reflecting thinking is not one of those things that you do all of a sudden. In some instances it takes many years to become a master at reflective thinking. It is one of those things where if you stick to it, you will be rewarded with success. I guarantee it.
In practice, it means that learners need to solve problems and think about how they did it and the problem-solving strategies they utilized in the process.
Some fundamental characteristics of utilizing reflective thinking include:
- Ensuring that students get enough time to analyze a question’s all aspects before answering it
- Continually reviewing learning situations to identify what the learners already know, what they should know but don’t, and what they learned from the entire experience
- Providing support to learners and motivating them to analyze and assess their conclusions continually
- Giving students tasks they’re likely to encounter in daily life and motivating them to reflect on how they want to complete them
- Stimulating students’ ability to think reflectively by exposing them to questions that need logical reasoning and supplying evidence
- Guiding students through their thought process by supplying different helpful explanations
- Encouraging learners to write down their opinions on different matters, give logical and valid explanations for why they hold these opinions, accept opposite viewpoints, and search for weaknesses in their arguments
Using reflective teaching can bring multiple benefits to both teachers and students. Some of these include:
It widens students’ perspectives: By exposing learners to weaknesses in their arguments and opposing viewpoints, teachers encourage them to consider issues with an open mind and be more understanding with individuals who don’t hold similar opinions.
It can help instructors teach new concepts to learners: Engaging with learners and motivating them to exercise reflective thinking can make the teacher’s work more efficient.
Concluding Thoughts
Reflective thinking is an effective tool for helping students analyze their own ideas and prior knowledge. Instead of accepting knee-jerk responses, the teacher gives the students the time to think of their answers, and provide logical reasoning backing up the responses. Reflective thinking requires the student to take the time to consider the questions posed, and to analyze their own thoughts before giving an answer. By practicing reflective thinking in class, teachers are able to help the students expand on their own ideas, as well as consider the logic behind any opposing conclusions. Reflective thinking, when applied in a less structured manner, gives the students an opportunity to explore instead of just consuming the required material. When effectively applied, reflective thinking is a powerful motivational tool for teachers when introducing new concepts to learners.
