There will be a focus on the applications to the learners' practice of the following models:

The DATA method (Peters, 1991). DATA stands for the four stages in the process: describe; analyse; theorize and act.
The critical thinking method (Brookfield, 1987). A trigger event is identified and appraised by recognising the nature of the concern and translating this into a definition of the problem.
Moon input/outcome method (1999). In this method, thoughts, theories and past experiences form the basis for the reflective process with possible outcomes like resolution of decisions or uncertainty.

You are expected to submit your Reflective Practice Assignment within 6 months of registration for this module. During this time your module tutor as well as your Account Manager / Director of Study will provide both support and advice as well as check on your progress. Normally you will be working as a group and you should anticipate participation in 4 group workshops of 2 hours. Normally you can expect to receive up to a further 2 hours of personal support, feedback and advice. You will be allocating much of your early work to ensuring that you have a sound understanding of the nature of reflective practice and the assessment task. It is important that you submit early drafts of your Reflective Practice Assignment by no later than 2/3 of the way towards your deadline for final submission.

Pass
Proficient, fluently, presented arguments that demonstrate understanding of theoretical issues in the application of knowledge.
Work includes critical analysis that demonstrates breadth and depth of literature and knowledge in the subject area, and originality in presentation.
The use of evidence demonstrates an understanding of the advancement of the boundaries of knowledge and is used as a basis for problem - solving.
Referencing is complete and accurate.

In this module this will cover the following:
- Appropriate selection of critical events/situations/factors as the basis for valid analysis of complex situations and contexts.
- Application of theory to practice in order to develop appropriate strategies in an ongoing situation.

Merit
A piece of work which meets all the requirements of a pass grade and in addition:
Presents arguments which have been underpinned by a thorough exploration of data and conceptual - based evidence which may go beyond the boundaries of the discipline. Discussion communicates ideas and arguments logically, concisely, clearly and effectively.

Distinction
An outstanding piece of work which meets all of the requirements of a merit grade and in addition:
Demonstrates creativity and innovation.
There is substantial evidence of critique, challenge and original thought.
The arguments presented are compelling and authoritative and demonstrate synthesis to support new ideas

In this module this will cover the following:
- An excellent awareness and understanding will be shown of the subject matter when selecting appropriate critical events/situations/factors which are the basis for valid analysis of complex situations and contexts.
- Logical and clear conclusions/proposals which show perception and insight when used as the basis for specific practice and identifying actions that lead directly from reflection.

Brookfield, S. D. (1987) 'Developing Critical Thinkers: Challenging Adults to Explore Alternate Ways of Thinking and Acting' (Milton Keynes, Open University Press)

Clegg, S., Tan, J. and Saeideh, S. (2002) 'Reflecting or Acting? Reflective Practice and Continuing Professional Development in Higher Education, Reflective Practice, 3(1), pp. 131-146.

Dewey, J. (1933) 'How We Think: a restatement of the relation of reflective thinking to the educative process' (Lexington, MA, D. C. Heath)

Kuit, J. A., Reay, G. and Freeman, R. (2001) Experiences of reflective teaching, Active Learning in Higher Education, 2(2), pp. 128-142.

Langer, A. M. (2002) Reflecting on practice: using learning journals in higher and continuing education, 'Teaching in Higher Education', 7(3) pp. 337-351.

Moon, J. (1999) 'Reflection in Learning and Professional Development' (Kogan Page, London)

Moon, J. (1999) 'Learning Journals: A Handbook for Academics, Students and Professional Development', (Kogan Page, London)

Peters, J. (1991) Strategies for reflective practice, in R Brockett (ed) 'Professional Development for Educational of Adults and Continuing Education', No 51. (San Francisco, Jossey-Bass)

Schon, D. (1983) The Reflective Practitioner, (San Francisco, Jossey-Bass)

Schon, D. (1987) Educating Reflective Practitioners (San Francisco, Jossey-Bass)