Reflecting differently. New dimensions: reflection-before-action and reflection-beyond-action.

Edwards, Sharon (2017) Reflecting differently. New dimensions: reflection-before-action and reflection-beyond-action. International Practice Development Journal, 7 (1). ISSN 2046-9292

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Abstract

Background: This article attempts to move reflection forward from what is currently identified as a two-dimensional process e.g. reflection-in and reflection-on-action, to a four-dimensional process e.g. reflection-before, reflection-in, reflection-on and reflection-beyond-action. In nursing clinical practice it is reflection-in-action that is the required skill, but it is often reflection-on-action that is advocated in nurse education through the application of reflective models into assignments. Nurse education draws on practice, but generally, when using reflective practice, applies some sort of method or guide to direct student learning. This approach does not fully recognise that much learning arises from individual students’ own clinical practice experiences. The notion that undertaking of reflection-on-action assignments develops the necessary reflection-in-action skills needed for clinical practice is not demonstrated. Yet it is reflection-in-action that can aid professional practice and enhance learning. This is why it is important to explore a broader approach to reflection. Aims: To show that more value can be gained from engaging with two additional dimensions of reflection that of reflection-before-action and reflection-beyond-action. To demonstrate how this idea draws on: the two additional concepts reflection-before-action and reflection-beyond-action referred to in few areas of current literature, links them to the already better known concepts reflection-in-action and reflection-on-action, my doctoral research, practice experience and practice development activities. Findings: Nursing reflection-on-action is more widely employed for a range of purposes, but restricting nurse education to just reflection-on-action does not realise the full potential of a broader application of reflection. A life-long application of refection can demonstrate the value of reflection for a more holistic and practical development approach. Conclusions: This article explores the value of using reflection more broadly in terms of developing a four-dimensional process e.g. reflection-before, -in, -on, and -beyond-action as ways of facilitating learning from practice and developing professional practice. Implications for practice: • The focus of the article is on reflection for student nurses and nurses • Reflection as a four-dimensional process can give access to improved professional practice that would otherwise remain hidden. • Through reflecting differently, nurses can process their reflection, -before-action, -in-action, -on-action, and -beyond-action as a means to expanding and deepening their understanding of professional practice (Figure 1). • Reflection-before, and –beyond-action are viewed as additional ways of aiding professional practice. • Allow nurses when engaging in reflection to be able to do so freely and without constraints.

Item Type:	Article
Keywords:	Reflection, Reflection in Action, Reflection on Action, New Dimensions.
Divisions:	?? BucksNewUniversity ??
Depositing User:	J McPeak
Date Deposited:	02 Jun 2017 10:58
Last Modified:	11 Dec 2017 19:27
URI:	https://bnu.repository.guildhe.ac.uk/id/eprint/15524

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