Reflectiveness

Why do most teachers and students find it so hard to reflect?  Hmmm....that is a very good question. 

Reflection is not something that everyone knows how to do.   It is not something that is taught, but should be.  Everyone should take some time, maybe not everyday, but once in awhile to really look back on what has been going on in their life.  Often times we are so busy with our everyday lives that we don't give ourselves the chance to just stop and think; to ask yourself "why did I do that" or "how could I have made that situation better."  

I know that it is often hard for me to reflect on my academics because I don't always like what I find.  For example, if I get a mediocre score on a quiz and I take the time to reflect on why that may be, it is usually because I found something more important to do....This usually includes socializing until all hours of the night, cleaning my room, or just putting off my studies because I just need a break.  Reflection often makes me more upset with myself when I see how my priorities are most often not in the right order.

In  my opinion, reflection is highly essential in teaching.  Teachers need to be able to look back on how their day went and be able to really find out what worked or didn't work.  Reflection is a key way to improve one's teaching in their classroom. Reflection is also essential for students as well.  Having them take the time to look at their academic path could very well help many to make changes necessary for good academic growth. 

When you take the time to stop and really think about your previous actions, you may notice that not everything may be going in the direction that you want.  If this becomes a habit, it may help one to become more sure about their decisions and what direction they want any aspect of their life to go.