Susan H. Kenney                                                       April 17, 2007

EDUC 805: Doctoral Seminar                                    Dr. Joan P. Isenberg, Ed. D., Associate Dean

Reflection of Reflections                                                       

(Description) Drs. White and Fox spoke about the importance of critical reflection.  (Initial analysis) In what stage in the coding guide would my reflections fall?  Being in my second semester of the PhD program I know that we are required to write reflections at the culmination of each class to include in our portfolio. (Synthesis, Evaluation, and Reflection)  I reviewed the reflections I have made from the beginning.  I noticed that the later ones have grown longer and have a bit more substance than the earlier ones.  I realized that in my professional life, although I regularly reflect on my experiences and interactions with students, teachers, and parents, those reflections have usually been informal.  (Description) Drs. White and Fox have helped me realize that to formalize those reflections will help me learn from both mistakes and successes.  (Analysis) Reflecting with others further enhances the possible growth through collaboration. Having a community of learners, thinkers, teachers, helps members see through other perspectives, helping to illuminate the blind spots. (Synthesis, Evaluation, and Reflection)  I am able to witness the value first hand in the Blackboard discussion communities.  I am learning through my written as well as being introduced to other possibilities through the comments and responses of others.     

(Description) While going through the PhD Program, I have also noticed the integration of the classes and assignments.  Learning the information and skills in one class helps with assignments and skills practiced in other classes. (Analysis)  More importantly, each concept I learn is a small step in the journey towards my dissertation.  (Synthesis, Evaluation, and Reflection) Thinking about all these has made me realize that organization is vital in this process.  Critical reflection was key in this realization and it will be important to keep reflections organized in order to systematically learn from them and problem solve for actions that should be taken!  I am setting up files that will help me with the organization process.  As I reflect regularly I will determine the effect and seek other ways to develop the skills and knowledge required of a scholar.                                              

Is this more specific?   Do the labels fit?                

Thank you,        Susan Kenney