4 Models of reflection – core concepts for reflective thinking.

Auditory learning style – this means you learn by hearing and listening. Acquire knowledge by reading aloud • Hum and/or talk to yourself • Make comments like: ➢ “I hear you clearly.” ➢ “I’m wanting you to listen.” ➢ “This sounds good.” Kinesthetic learning style – this means you learn by touching and doing.

There are three main cognitive learning styles: visual, auditory, and kinesthetic.

The John Driscoll Model of Reflection is a framework for reflection, developed into a structured process to guide reflection. There are several models of reflection and there isn’t one right choice. It’s important to choose the model that matches the person who will be using it.

Professor Gary Rolfe and colleagues (2001) describe another useful framework for self-reflection in their book ‘Framework for Reflective Practice’. It’s based around three simple questions: What? – describe a particular situation, then focus on achievements, consequences, responses, feelings and any problems.

The simple cyclical structure of gibbs reflective cycle model makes it easy to use and popular among nurses. It is useful as it emphasises the link between reflection and action (and this can assist in setting a personal development plan).

1. Include references It’s important to remember to include references in your reflective writing. If you choose to use Rolfe et al.’s (2001) model, the easiest place for your references to sit is within the “so what” section.

Models, sometimes known as frameworks for reflection, encourage a structured process to guide the act of reflection. There is no right model. It is important to choose the one that feels most comfortable for you and best assists you to learn from your experience.