Do We Need Others

                                                    

“It can be argued that “real” reflective practice needs another person as mentor or professional supervisor, who can ask appropriate questions to ensure that the reflection goes somewhere, and does not get bogged down in self-justification, self- indulgence or self-pity!” (Atherton, 2005, reflective practice, Para 3).

It is rightly said that ‘man is a social animal’. The same is true for learning in life. Human beings learn in the society because community is the source of reflection for each of us. Learning cannot be imagined in isolation. The socio-constructivist viewpoint claims that learning is a social process. Individuals actively construct knowledge in a social environment by interacting with people around them, especially those more knowledgeable others. (Bruner, 1996; Vygotsky, 1978)

Therefore I would like to say that I agree with the above statement. The easy and appropriate way of reflection is to take help from your peer, supervisor, mentor or even students. Self reflection often misguides due to our nature or ego.  J. Ruan (2005) finds in a study that reflection is a social as well as an individual act. A supportive virtual environment with opportunities for constant and consistent social interaction facilitates reflection. In brief, the views of others are valuable and can acknowledge a teacher his weaknesses or limitations. 

I would like to recall a session of Geography in which I taught about ‘Time’. My reflection on the session was that my students followed the lesson well. It was an interesting activity for them as they got the opportunity to solve problem during the session. The only limitation that I noticed that I did arrange for them the required number of problem to illustrate the topic.

I receive reflection on the same from my students and supervisor. It was that even my supervisor faced the difficulty to go along my topic. One of the students asked me to explain the topic again. There suggestions were different from mine. They were of the view that I should use some teaching aids to introduce the topic. The reason of difference in time should be explained. The session should be divided into two sessions as the content was complex.

To conclude, the true reflection comes from different spheres.

Bruner, J. (1996). The culture of education. Harvard University Press. Retrieved from: http://www.kmel-journal.org/ojs/index.php/online-publication/article/view/144/114

Ruan, J., & Beach, S.A. (2005). Using online peer dialogue journaling to promote reflection in elementary pre-service teachers. Action in Education, 27(3), 64-75. Retrieved from: http://www.kmel-journal.org/ojs/index.php/online-publication/article/view/144/114

Vygotsky, L.S. (1978). Mind in society. Cambridge, MA: Harvard University. Retrieved from: http://www.kmel-journal.org/ojs/index.php/online-publication/article/view/144/114