Gibbs’ Reflective Cycle in Education

Think of one particular, specific experience that helped you to learn something. How did it happen?

We learn in many ways: through formal schooling, through practical experience, and through our associations with other people. For your answer, follow Gibbs’ reflective cycle. The cycle is summarized as follows:

• Start with a description: What happened?
• Explain your feelings: What were you thinking and feeling at the time?
• Evaluate the experience: What was good and bad about it?
• Analyze it: What sense can you make of it in a broader context? or Why is it important?
• Explain the options: What else could you have done?
• Provide an action plan: What will you do if you face a similar situation in the future?