Key terms and concepts

Reflection

“Intellectual and affective activities in which individuals engage to explore their experiences in order to lead to new understandings and appreciations. It may take place in isolation or in association with others” (Boud, Keogh and Walkers, 1985, p.19).

Critical Reflection

Reflection on how our thoughts and perceptions have been constructed so that they can be deconstructed and transformation can take place. More in the next module.

Critical Incident

An experience that was significant to you. It may have raised issues for you, challenged your beliefs or values or just given you pause to think.

Reflective Practice Framework

A structured approach that guides one through the process of reflection. A framework may be quite specific, such as a series of questions or it may be more abstract.