Embrace the New Year: The importance of reflection in teaching
Posted on 1st January 2025 at 13:34
As we step into 2025, many of us are setting resolutions to improve our personal and professional lives. For us teachers, particularly those teaching in Further Education (FE) and adult learning environments, one resolution should stand out: the commitment to reflective practice.
Whether you're a newly qualified teacher or currently engaged in teacher training courses such as the level 3 Award in Education and Training, the level 4 Certificate in Education and Training and the Level 5 Diploma in Teaching, embracing reflection can significantly enhance your teaching effectiveness and personal growth.
Why reflection matters in FE teaching
Reflection is more than just a buzzword, or something we only need to do as part of a teaching qualification: it’s a critical component of effective teaching.
Here’s why reflection should be at the forefront of your professional development this year:
1. It makes your teaching better: Reflective practice allows you to evaluate your teaching methods, understand what works and identify areas for improvement. We ask our students to do this with their work all the time! It is no different for us as teachers.
2. Your students will become more engaged: When you reflect on your teaching, you become more attuned to your students' needs and learning styles. As a result, you can create a more engaging and inclusive learning environment, which naturally leads to better relationships with your students.
3. It is part of your Continuing Professional Development (CPD): We all need to keep it up to date! Reflection encourages you to set personal goals, track your progress and chase new opportunities for growth.
4. It’s mindful: Teaching can be demanding, and it’s easy to become overwhelmed. Reflective practice provides an outlet for processing your experiences, reducing stress and enhancing your emotional well-being.
Setting resolutions for reflection
As you set your New Year’s resolutions, consider incorporating reflection into your routine. Here are some tips to get started:
• Schedule regular reflection time: Dedicate a specific time each week for reflection. Use this time to review your lessons, assess student feedback and contemplate your teaching experiences.
• Keep a reflective journal: Documenting your thoughts and insights is a powerful way to track your growth. A reflective journal allows you to articulate your experiences, clarify your thoughts and revisit your progress over time. We’ve got something you might like to try for this.
• Talk to your colleagues: Collaborate with people at work to share reflections and gain new perspectives. Peer feedback can enhance your understanding and provide valuable insights into your teaching practice.
Introducing The Teacher's Journal
To support your commitment to reflection, The EMG is excited to introduce The Teacher's Journal - Reflect in a Way That Reflects You.
This thoughtfully designed journal is perfect for educators at any stage of their journey, from newly qualified teachers to those in training courses like the level 3 Award in Education and Training, the level 4 Certificate in Education and Training and the Level 5 Diploma in Teaching.
What’s inside The Teacher's Journal?
Personalised reflection: Discover various reflective practices that allow you to explore your teaching methods, student interactions and professional development in a manner that aligns with your individual style.
Diverse prompts and activities: Engage with thought-provoking prompts and creative activities that inspire deeper reflection and encourage innovative thinking.
Available for immediate download!
Don’t let another year pass without committing to your growth as a teacher.
The Teacher's Journal is available for immediate download in our shop, allowing you to start your journey of reflection today.
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