Getting started and keeping track of your reflections

In this module you may discover preferred ways of learning as well as patterns in learning which can be questioned or critiqued (Rolfe, Freshwater & Jasper 2001).  Here are some strategies to start the process of reflective learning and to keep track of your progress. The strategy you adopt may depend on your learning style*, though of course, you can use any or the strategies or a combination of them.

• To keep track of your learning by writing up a minute paper after classes or conversations.
• If you are an active, verbal or sensing learner you might decide to develop a ‘critical friend’, that is, someone with whom you can exchange ideas and consciously discuss aspects of your learning.
• If you are a visual, reflective or intuitive learner you might start by drawing a diagram or perhaps a concept map, where you create nodes, links and labels built around central ideas. To keep track of your ideas you could write short summaries or take photos of important events or images.
• If you are a reflective, verbal or intuitive learner you might find that it's useful to write a conversation with yourself. You do this by posing questions to yourself, creating answers or proposing points and counter points. Use this format to create a convincing argument for a particular point of view. To keep track of your learning, try keeping a log or journal. The Journal writing guide gives you some suggestions.
• If you are a verbal, active or sensing learner you could try recording your thoughts on your mobile phone or MP3 player
• Reflective, intuitive or visual learners will find interactive reading notes can be useful, while active or sensing learners will find it's helpful to find practical applications for what it is they are trying to learn.

* if you would like to determine your learning style and preferences you can complete this online questionnaire

Now you are ready for Activity 3