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In a learning context, reflective writing is when a student takes the time to think not only about what they are learning, but importantly, how they learn, what thoughts and feelings arose at the time, their conclusions about the learning experience, and what they will do in the future. A learning Journal is a place where students can record their experiences. Reflection is a useful process when working with material that is presented in a relatively unstructured manner or is about ideas and strategies that are very individual. In these cases, reflection is the key ingredient for transforming experiences into learning. Learning journals are used for many reasons including: ü To develop critical thinking or development of a questioning attitude ü To increase active involvement in learning and the ability to reflect and think ü To enhance problem solving skills and reflective practice. ü For reasons of personal development and self-empowerment. ü To enhance creativity and to improve writing. ü To improve self-expression. ||
 * Reflective Writing and Learning Journals **
 * ü To record and learn from experience


 * A learning journal may contain details of problems learners have encountered and solved (or not solved).


 * Formal learning is "taught" in a formal academic setting.


 * Informal learning is learning which takes place outside a formal academic setting, for example, though talking with friends or colleagues in a social or work setting.


 * A Learning Journal is a personal document. Its content may be very loosely structured and only relevant to the individual. It can be a valuable and useful 'tool' to help think about and structure learning.

There are numerous models of reflection that <span style="color: #000000; font-family: "Century Gothic","sans-serif"; font-size: 13.33px;"> can help students get started. One such model is the Gibbs Cycle of Reflection which is an easy template for analysing a learning experience. Choose one event that happened and ask the following questions:
 * **<span style="color: #000000; font-family: "Century Gothic","sans-serif"; font-size: 13.33px;">Models of Reflection **

<span style="color: #000000; font-family: "Century Gothic","sans-serif"; font-size: 13.33px;">By understanding and acknowledging what else could have been done, students will hopefully gain awareness of how they might do things differently in the future as a consequence of their learning experience. <span style="color: #000000; font-family: "Century Gothic","sans-serif"; font-size: 13.33px;">It takes a while to adjust to keeping a learning journal, but it is very useful tool for students who want to reflect on their learning experiences. There are numerous models available to students and creative ways to approach reflective activities.

Hort Sector CA 10% Hospital Project Part 2- Recording and Reflection
 * <span style="color: #ffffff; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 12px;">Everyone thinks. It is our nature to do so. But much of our thinking, left to, recognizing and assessing, as needs be, their assumptions, implications, and practical consequences
 * <span style="color: #ffffff; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 12px;">Communicates effectively with others in figuring out solutions to complex problems

Over the next three weeks we will clear mark out prepare and plant a courtyard garden in a courtyard of our neighbouring hospital. No set word count
 * We will aim for a high level of finish using professional and safe working practices at all times
 * You are to record your experience of this project thoroughly. Use photographs and diagrams to illustrate your recordings.
 * You will reflect individually on the project and attempt a mature and critical analysis of the experience.
 * Submission date Friday 4th May 2012 in submission box outside A15 **