Reflective learning in higher education: a qualitative study on students' perceptions

• Published in: Studies in higher education (Dorchester-on-Thames) Vol. 41; no. 6; pp. 1008 - 1022
• Main Authors: Fullana, Judit, Pallisera, Maria, Colomer, Jordi, Fernández Peña, Rosario, Pérez-Burriel, Marc
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: Abingdon Routledge 02.06.2016; Taylor & Francis Ltd; Taylor and Francis
• Subjects: Adult Education; Aprenentatge; Content Analysis; Education; Ensenyament universitari; Environmental Education; Focus Groups; Foreign Countries; Higher Education; Investigació qualitativa; Learning; Methods; Nursing Education; Pedagogia; Perceptions; Psychology; Qualitative Research; Reflection; reflective learning; Social Development; Spain; Student Attitudes; Students; students' perceptions; Study and teaching (Higher); Teaching Methods; Undergraduate Students; undergraduates; Spain
• ISSN: 0307-5079; 1470-174X
• DOI: 10.1080/03075079.2014.950563

This article presents the results of a study aimed at determining the perceptions of students participating in reflective learning (RL) experiences at the University of Girona (Spain), specifically regarding the benefits and challenges of this methodology. Four focus groups were organized with students who had participated in RL experiences on four different undergraduate degree courses: nursing, environmental sciences, psychology and social education. Data were analysed using thematic content analysis. The study shows that students think RL contributes to a better understanding of themselves, their learning and their motivation to learn. Identified challenges were related primarily to understanding the aims of the experience, the degree of personal openness and the system of assessment. The study also provides some guidelines and orientation for improving experiences of undergraduate training based on RL.