The Benefits of Reflective Writing.

It is important as a teacher to consistently inform ourselves as to whether our teaching styles and strategies are effective for the learner. If we desire to be a good or even excellent teacher and would like to be an inspiration to others it will greatly depend on the amount of reflective thinking that we do as regards our teaching practice. Reflective writing can aid a teacher to identify areas for improvement to bring about a better teaching experience.

One of the main aims for a teacher is to develop skills within a learner, that contribute to an improvement of opportunities for the learner, as regards future employment and individual performance and development.

Reflective writing helps teachers to be self-critical and to identify the quality of the teaching they are providing. We can determine if our teaching is to a high standard, if we are motivating and inspiring the student to engage with the learning experience. We are able to ask ourselves what is working and what is not and make the necessary changes in our teaching. Are we consistently developing new skills and knowledge in the student, are their attitudes positive or negative to our teaching methods. Are our communication skills effective and contributing to effective learning or is our teaching style a barrier to learning outcomes.

Reflective writing is a necessity for teachers, it is vital for a teacher to continually and consistently improve their teaching quality and practice. Adapting our approaches to meet students needs is essential, reflective writing is a relevant diagnostic means for self-assessment and for teachers to recognize and identify strengths and weaknesses.