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FEATURE ARTICLE
Reflecting
on reflective
thinking!
In this final part of our three-piece series, we
add reflective thinking to the skills of critical and
creative thinking abilities to complete the trio of
crucial cognitive tools.
By Margot Bertelsmann, with Andre Croucamp
of MindBurst Workshop (www.mindburstwork.com)
Ever had an experience that embarrassed you or left
you feeling like you missed an opportunity? Do you
think back and imagine what you could have done
differently? The skill of reflection helps you to do that
before the next time.
The skill of reflecting helps you slow down and step
back. You might think this is the worst thing to do
in an exam, but it could save you if it allows you to
reflect on your strategy. When you’re faced with a
Maths problem or a History essay, instead of rushing
into it, slow down, stop, step back, and reflect on
what method you’re going to use. Talk to yourself
about your approach. You can waste time just
grabbing bits of information and struggling to piece
them together.
Reflection helps you benefit from experiences,
whether good or bad. When you have finished
a speech for English or a sports game, instead of
walking away thankful that it’s over, slow down, stop,
stand back and reflect on your performance. What
worked well? Where could have done better? What
will you change next time? This is called feedback.
When you get feedback perhaps from a parent,
teacher or coach that feels like criticism, slow down,
stop, step back, because this is how we learn. When
we make an effort to reflect on our performance,
especially if we’re feeling uncomfortable about it, we
can access insight. Every insight you reflect on grows
and builds what you will be able to do years
from now.
When you’re feeling frustrated with your lack of
progress, slow down, stop and reflect on what
gave rise to those feelings. Can you reflect without
judgement? Can you look closely and honestly at
yourself without putting yourself down? Because it is
the future looking back at you in the mirror.
Reflective thinking skills are listed as desired Global
Competencies for ADvTECH school learners, and
this is how the clever guys who construct your school
curriculum define them: “Reflective thinking involves
students reflecting on, adjusting and explaining their
thinking. It’s about identifying the thinking behind
your choices, strategies and actions.”
Every child a masterpiece | 23