Professional Development And Reflective Practice Education Essay

Professional Development And Reflective Practice Education Essay Counsellor self-awareness has been frequently emphasised as a critical professional competency for all counsellors (Remley Herlihy, 2007). To support this key competency, reflective practice is an important means of supporting self-awareness in students and beginning counsellors. This paper will look at some definitions of reflective practice, and how it is far more than just thinking about what has happened. Reflective practice is an approach used in counselling and other health professions where models of reflection offer a way to evaluate applied learning: it is a method of refining skills and expertise by scrutinizing actions while they are being carried out, and then assessing them through discussion, writing exercises such as journalling, similar assessments or by professional supervision. Reflective practice has been developed in a variety of fields over the last few decades, most markedly in professions where interpersonal relationships are central and a high degree of intuitive judgement and decision-making is needed. Because of this, counselling and teaching make great use of reflective practice methods, along with community and youth workers, and allied health professionals. Professional practice was pioneered by Donald Schà ¶n in the 1980s. Several models exist, but basically reflective practice and learning involves growth and development as a professional by considering at an event or incident, understanding it and learning from it. Different models may emphasise different areas of reflective learning, or broaden the process to include a range of peers, communities and professional or learning colleagues Reflective practice is a continuous process and involves the learner considering critical incidents in their life experiences. As defined by Schà ¶n, reflective practice involves thoughtfully considering ones own experiences in applying knowledge to practice while being coached by professionals in the discipline. It has been described as an unstructured, self-regulated process approach directing understanding and learning. Reflective practice as a way of working that involves acting consciously and deliberately on the basis of critical insight and understanding. A reflective practitioner needs to develop an awareness of new ways to look at situations, consider new opportunities and techniques, and finds fresh means to challenge states an circumstances. A reflective practioners is a Iifelong learner, as each experience will shape their practice and approach. A belief which underpins reflective practice is that counsellors should consolidate or frame our understanding. Framing is an inevitable thing: There is no way of perceiving and making sense of reality except through a frame, for the very task of making sense of complex, information-rich situations requires an operation of selectivity and organisation, which is what framing means à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦(Schà ¶n, 1994, p29). To be reflective does not imply disregarding all assumptions and prior opinions. Instead, it is about being aware of what practioners bring with us when we meet with others. Reflective practitioners must be able to put themselves in the shoes of other actors, but and they must also have the complementary ability to consider how their own frames may contribute to problematic situations (Schà ¶n, 1994, p187). Reflective practice is consequently something that takes persistent and constant time, commitment and practice. To help counsellors, particularly as beginning counsellors, this can be where an good supervisor is so important, inspiring the counsellor to grow as a person and a professional, to think and act outside of the box and avoid falling into self-deception or pitfalls. An continuing commitment to education and also an essential basic requirement to aid this growth and development. In reflective practice it is possible to distinguish three different phases. Schà ¶n (1983) distinguished between reflection-in-action (at the same time as the practice takes place) and reflection-on-action (afterwards). reflection on practice which involves stepping back from an experience and exploring (a) what happened (b) what can be learned from it and (b) what should be done next time. This approach is used widely with students in various disciplines who are encouraged to keep a journal of learning experiences and their practice implications. Kolbs learning circle (experience _reflection _ making sense _ planning for action) is a common tool used by supervisors to help students learn this process in systematic form. Secondly, there is reflection in practice which involves being aware and conscious in the here-and-now moment; i.e. during supervision/counselling as its actually happening. This is, in some respects, an advanced-level application of reflection on practice and essential for those engaged in counselling and supervision approaches that involve working primarily with immediacy (e.g. psychotherapy: recognising transference, projection, parallel process etc.). It is also especially valuable for people working in crisis situations where conditions change rapidly and the ability to think continually on ones feet is critical. the difference between reflection on and reflection in is, in essence, the difference between What happened thenà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦? and What is happening nowà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦?. The practice dimension reminds us that for learning-through-reflection to become genuinely transformational, it needs to be applied. The role of supervisor, therefore, involves not only helping the counsellor to learn through reflection but to support application of that learning to enhance his or her counselling practice. When these dimensions are drawn together in continual process, the counsellor can be described as a reflective practitioner. According to Schon (1983), reflection-in-action is a rigorous professional process involving acknowledgement of and reflection on uncertainty and complexity in ones practice leading to a legitimate form of professional knowing (p.69). Reflection-in-action is defined by Schà ¶n as the ability of professionals to think what they are doing while they are doing it. the only way to manage the indeterminate zones of (professional) practice is through the ability to think on your feet, and apply previous experience to new situations. This is essential work of the professional, and requires the capability of reflection-in-action. Schà ¶n also offers his thoughts on how this kind of professional is produced. He describes a number of key concepts: The Reflective Practicum. a term for the educational setting, or environment: A practicum is a setting designed for the task of learning a practice. This is where students learn by doing, with the help of coaching. The practicum is reflective in two senses: it is intended to help students become proficient in a kind of reflection-in-action; and, when it works well, it involves a dialogue of coach and student that takes the form of reciprocal reflection-in-action.    Tacit knowledge: his comes from the work of Michael Polanyi3. He describes for example the remarkable way we are able to pick out a familiar face in a crowd. This does not require thinking about, or a systematic analysis of features. We cannot verbalise how this is done, and so the knowledge is unspoken or tacit.   Knowing-in-action derives from the idea of tacit knowledge. It refers to the kinds of knowledge revealed in the way we carry out tasks and approach problems. The knowing is in the action. It is revealed by the skilful execution of the performance we are characteristically unable to make it verbally explicit. This tacit knowledge is derived from research, and also from the practitioners own reflections and experience.   Reflection-in-action: reflection that occurs whilst a problem is being addressed, in what Schon calls the action-present. It is a response to a surprise where the expected outcome is outside of our knowing-in-action. The reflective process is at least to some degree conscious, but may not be verbalised. Reflection-in-action is about challenging our assumptions (because knowing-in-action forms the basis of assumption). It is about thinking again, in a new way, about a problem we have encountered.   Reflection-on-action: reflection after the event. Consciously undertaken, and often documented.   Willing suspension of disbelief: describes the process of entering into an experience, without judgment, in order to learn from it. Schà ¶n uses the term in relation to the idea of learning by doing. One cannot will oneself to believe until one understands. But understanding often will only arise from experience. So it is necessary first to allow the experience to happen.   Operative attention: listening and absorbing information, in a state of readiness to apply and experiment with the new information. An everyday example would be when we listen to directions on how to find an obscure address. This participation is important in the learning process a learner needs to be already engaged in activity for further information to have meaning. This in turn is partly derived from Wittgensteins5 contention that the meaning of an operation can only be learned through its performance. Hence mechanical or imperfect performance of an activity prepares the learner for new information (feedback) on that activity, in order to develop understanding.   The ladder of reflection: Schà ¶n speaks of a vertical dimension of analysis that can happen in the dialogue between learner and teacher. To move up a rung on the ladder involves reflecting on an activity. To move down a rung is to move from reflection to experimentation. This ladder has more than two rungs it is also possible to reflect on the process of reflection. The importance of this concept is in its potential for helping out with stuck situations in learning. Being able to move to another level may assist coach and learner to achieve together what Schà ¶n refers to as convergence of meaning.   Professional reflective practice is an intricate and challenging activity. It takes time, commitment and support, ongoing professional development and supervision to mature. It should leads to new action and a confirmation of existing actions. Reflective practice needs to be more than just thoughtful practice, it needs to be a continual process of turning practice into educational opportunities. Also very useful in expressing an approach to reflective practice is Kolbs experiential learning theory. Kolb (1984), a leader in the contemporary experiential education movement, defined experiential learning as the process whereby knowledge is created through the transformation of experience (p. 38). His model of experiential learning was based on the works of developmental theorists John Dewey, Kurt Lewin, and Jean Piaget. Ideally there is a learning cycle or spiral where the learner passed through a four stage learning cycle: first a cycle of experiencing, then of reflecting, thirdly thinking, and finally acting. Immediate or concrete experiences lead to observations and reflections. These reflections are then assimilated (absorbed and translated) into abstract concepts with implications for action, which the person can actively test and experiment with, which in turn enable the creation of new experiences. As learners continue to have new concrete experiences, by reflecting and thinking about them, we can plan, test hypotheses, and have a positive impact on new experiences. Kolbs learning circle (experience, reflection, making sense, then planning for action) is a practical tool to help students learn (Wright, 202) . (a) concrete experience, (b) reflective observation, (c) abstract conceptualization, and (d) active experimentation. The process of experiential education and learning begins with the concrete experience itself (e.g., participating as a member in a small group) and continues with intentional and guided reflection on or debriefing of that experience. Abstract conceptualization represents both the integration of learning experiences and the generation of new ideas. This might include identifying and understanding the monopolizing behaviour on the part of a group member and brainstorming ways to address it in the next group session. Through active experimentation, these new ideas can be tested and explored. the process of reflection is one of the necessary stages of learning (Kolb 1984; Bennett-Levy 2006) and therefore Part of clinical wisdom is reflection on practice. Supervision provides the reflective space in which to consider the difficulties and particulars of counselling, within a supportive relationship. Supervision provides the opportunity to develop skills and understanding, and provides an avenue for comparing different approaches to managing and conceptualising client problems. Supervision can provided the reflective space to help the supervisee learn about their own thoughts and feelings, and the effect of self on clients. As a beginning counsellor, there a variety of excellent refection strategies to assist in personal and professional growth and development, to help improve counselling skills, and to prevent burn out and being overwhelmed by worries and concerns of clients. Appropriate and effective supervision (as well as group and peer supervision), journalling, feedback from clients and supervisors, measures of client progress, and continued education. Padesky (1996: 273-4) wrote: The art and skill of therapy are best developed in a therapist who consistently analyses and learns from both positive and negative client feedback and outcome.

Organizational Behavior and Communication Essay

This paper will focus on the American Red Cross. The culture, espoused values and enacted values are all important aspects of this organization. Communication plays a very vital role in the perception and organizational culture. Perceptions within this organization might cause misalignment between espoused and enacted values. Being able to identify the role of conflict in group communication of the organization is very vital to the success of the organization. The conflict tends to improve communication within and among groups, so that the organization can be effective. American Red Cross According to http://www. firelandsredcross. org/History. htm, the American Red Cross is the largest volunteer organization in America. Since the founding of the Red Cross by Clara Barton in 1881, volunteers have been trained to help families, friends, and neighbors in the event of an emergency. It is committed to making a positive difference by improving the quality of human life, enhancing self-reliance and concern for others, and helping people avoid, prepare for, and cope with emergencies. The American Red Cross South Arkansas chapter saves lives by responding with food, shelter, and hope when a disaster occurs. This organization saves lives. When disaster strikes, we respond with food, shelter and hope. Some of the major principles of American Red Cross Movement are: humanity, impartiality, independence, voluntary service, unity, and universality. The shared values of this organization includes: humanitarianism, stewardship, helping others, respect, voluntary spirit, continuous learning, and integrity. Some key elements toward the success of an organization should be influenced by the: culture, communication, role of conflict in group communication, and how conflict improves communication in the organization. Communication and Culture The relationship between communication and culture is very difficult to understand. Cultures are formed through communication. Communication is the way humans are able to interact by which customs, roles, rules, rituals, laws, or other patterns are created and shared. Without communication, it would be impossible to keep and pass along cultural qualities from one place and time to another. Communication plays a vital role in the success of American Red Cross and helps to achieve the desired outcomes of this organization. Culture is created, shaped, passed, and learned through communication. Therefore, communication practices are largely created, shaped, and transmitted by culture. Communication is the only organizational process that has the power to inform, educate and bring about cooperation and ultimately the kind of individual behavior change that leads to powerful cultural change. The past, present and future of this organization, which reflect the culture, can only be preserved through various communication artifacts. If the culture needs to be changed, communication is the main tool around the change process (Reiley & Roberts, 2007). Misalignment and Perception Often, misalignment of espoused and enacted values affects the perception of American Red Cross. Misalignment of values causes frustration, anger, confusion and disengagment. Organization leaders talk about teamwork, but sometimes employees experience a different reality that some team members are better than others. A limited view of goals in this organization leads to efforts being ignored, unappreciated or even belittled. Conflict in Group Communication American Red Cross is composed of individuals that have different opinions, beliefs, and values that cause conflict. Conflict occurs within this organization when the organization’s differences are communicated. Conflict in group communication helps to bring clarity, vision, and direction. Therefore, group communication helps with unity of vision, clear directives, feedback, and challenges of the organization. Improving Communication Conflict allows us to listen for and understand what is felt and said. This is necessary in order to build strong relationships among those in the American Red Cross. Conflict improves communication by the ability to recognize and respond to vital matters, find ways to compromise, and a belief that solving the problem can support the interest and needs of others (Leavitt, 2000). Overall, conflict improves communication by building strong and better relationships, overcoming challenges, and being successful with work in life. Conclusion Finally, the awareness of the American Red Cross culture is necessary for continued diverse growth. In order to attract the best of the organization, a culture of diversity and open communication is needed. Once the American Red Cross has these qualities, it can improve efficiency and have more viewpoints to learn from. To make sure the organizational culture is compatible with the strategic goals of this organization, conflict must be beneficial to the overall improvement of communication in this organization and success will be guaranteed.

Academic Essay - the Story

Academic Essay - the Story Ruthless Academic Essay Strategies Exploited Well, it's not to discourage you, but to allow you to know where you want to work on to be able to deliver an impeccable dissertation paper in the class. Essay writing services are all around the web. Although you don't have sufficient understanding of the writing format, you're still able to earn money so long as you are prepared to learn and do research. Somebody should explain to students that, difficult as it may be, it's not quite as hard as you're making it. The principal idea of all of the criticism is to give an opinion both of positive or negative implication. Several alternative logical structures for essays are visualized as diagrams, making them simple to implement or adapt in the building of an argument. Each point you make ought to be supported by a couple of good examples. An easy definition of academic writing is tough to find because it refers to writing done for a number of reasons. Wh atever They Told You About Academic Essay Is Dead Wrong...And Here's Why In other words, an academic essay may be an evidence of the depth of your research procedures and the rest of the activities that you've executed so you can support the content of your written output. Your dissertation should be utterly flawless, and that is the place where the dissertation editing services arrive in. Providing the definition of the main terms also works as a signal to your marker that you understand what you're referring to. The dissertation editing services can save yourself the day for those students by supplying them along with the essential assistance on their request. You should not attempt to look at your paper in 1 go, meaning that you need to go through it many times. Now you have a definition of academic writing, here are a few things to consider about the qualities of academic writing. Occasionally an excellent illustration of what you're attempting to achieve is well worth a 1000 words of advice! All sentences in a paper ought to be related logically and grammatically to earn a whole that permits the reader to follow along with the writers train of thought step-by-step. It's often easiest to compose the introduction after you've already drafted the remainder of your essay. Observing the pure line of thoughts, you need to specify the important issue of your essay. Before you really begin writing your essay, you need to make certain preparations. If you wish to make an academic essay which is both outstanding and relevant, always set the items that we've discussed above in mind. Academic essay writing is a style that anybody can learn how to produce, as soon as they know the fundamentals of writing an essay. You will work with professional essay writer until you've got a paper you are pleased with. When you are requested to compose an essay, attempt to locate some samples (models) of similar writing and learn how to observe the craft of the writer. If you're to really gain from model essays, you will need to understand how to read the techniques of the writer'. You can also see what are the sections of an essay. What you will need for your essay is probably going to be a little different. An academic essay always must be relevant. It should provide a solid, debatable thesis that is then supported by relevant evidencewhether that be from other sources or from one's own research. Recently, essays have come to be a big portion of an official education. Since academic essays are popular in the sphere of education and research, you have to make sure you r writing is both logical, interesting and informative. If it is possible to write a suitable academic essay, it is going to aid you greatly in your studies as you will get much better grades and earn your teachers' respect. The personal essay is among the most common sorts of writing assignment--and not just in freshman composition courses. Academic essay writing can on occasion be an extremely frustrating and tiring job if proper procedure isn't followed. In economics you'll be required to create a wide variety of written assignments, and only a few of them will be essays in the feeling that the term may be utilized in a history or literature class. Whether your goal is to help with writing an argumentative essay get superior grades at school or only to delight in the writing process Essay.

Alcohol And Its Effects On Alcohol - 1403 Words

Abstract Alcohol has long been a subject of controversy. Long before man understood the indications and contraindications of alcohol there has been laws against this drug. Classifying alcohol as a drug may not be suited for a majority of the population because people like to partake in drinking. Imbibing in alcohol is a tradition in many parts of the country. We use alcohol for celebrations, traditions, socialization and combining food flavors with specific alcohols. Forgetting that too much can lead to many issues and problems like alcoholism, liver disease and contraindications with other medications. Alcohol was extremely detrimental to the native Americans of this land. Keywords: alcohol, tradition, addiction, indications, contraindications, liver disease, native Americans. Alcohol Abuse and its Indications Alcohol has been around for many centuries, involving tradition, religion, and social gatherings. For many using alcohol is not a problem because they fall into the categories listed above. In some churches, the use of wine is used to represent the blood of Christ, although many have turned to grape juice now. Others use alcohol as a custom for watching football or perhaps traditionally within some cultures like the Irish, who drink daily for continued health. And lastly, social gatherings are also an excuse to ‘drink up’ and celebrate any event in one’s life. What most people fail to realize is that drinking can lead to health issues and dependence.Show MoreRelatedThe Effects Of Alcohol Abuse On Alcohol882 Words   |  4 Pagesme is alcohol. I often notice underage adolescents drinking and I also distinguish how they become different people when intoxicated by alcohol. They begin to walk funny and they tend to slur their words, making it hard to comprehend anyth ing they are saying. 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