ERIC Number: EJ1462744
Record Type: Journal
Publication Date: 2025-Mar
Pages: 10
Abstractor: As Provided
ISBN: N/A
ISSN: N/A
EISSN: EISSN-2474-3429
Available Date: 0000-00-00
"Transformative" Reflection: Re-Defining Reflection towards a Shared Destination
Johnathan Balzotti; Jamin Rowan; Mat Duerden
Experiential Learning and Teaching in Higher Education, v8 n1 p38-47 2025
This essay reevaluates the role of reflection in experiential learning programs, contrasting traditional solitary ref lection methods with contemporary approaches that integrate collaboration and multimodal expression. These new approaches highlight a shift toward more flexible and interactive methods, reflecting the influence of new technologies and pedagogical strategies. Through a case study of the "My London Story" study abroad program, which implemented a transformative reflection model guided by transformative learning objectives (TLOs), this paper explores how reflective practices can foster significant, shared learning outcomes. The program, spanning four months, involved 45 students who engaged in various reflective activities, including weekly prompts, group discussions, and a final multimedia project. The use of TLOs--focusing on curiosity and creativity--encouraged students to reflect not only on their experiences but also on their evolving identities and capabilities. The essay concludes that integrating new forms of reflective writing and digital media into experiential learning can profoundly enrich students' self-awareness and prepare them for future challenges, emphasizing the need for intent ional, mentored reflection to achieve transformative learning outcomes.
Descriptors: Foreign Countries, Transformative Learning, Reflection, College Students, Creative Writing, Creativity, Experiential Learning, Cooperative Learning, Learning Modalities, Learning Strategies, Technology Integration, Prompting, Extracurricular Activities, Multimedia Materials, Student Projects, Self Efficacy, Self Concept, Empathy, Creative Thinking, Story Telling, Learning Activities
California State University. 401 Golden Shore, Long Beach, CA 90802. Tel: 301-243-3307; Web site: https://journals.calstate.edu/elthe/
Publication Type: Journal Articles; Reports - Evaluative
Education Level: Higher Education; Postsecondary Education
Audience: N/A
Language: English
Sponsor: N/A
Authoring Institution: N/A
Identifiers - Location: United Kingdom (London)
Grant or Contract Numbers: N/A
Author Affiliations: N/A