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The document critically compares formal and informal reflection in teaching practice, highlighting their distinct functions and effectiveness in different situations. Informal reflection allows for immediate adjustments during or after lessons, while formal reflection supports long-term assessment and professional growth. The author emphasizes the importance of combining both approaches for continuous improvement in teaching and enhancing student learning experiences.

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7 views3 pages

assignment solved edu406

The document critically compares formal and informal reflection in teaching practice, highlighting their distinct functions and effectiveness in different situations. Informal reflection allows for immediate adjustments during or after lessons, while formal reflection supports long-term assessment and professional growth. The author emphasizes the importance of combining both approaches for continuous improvement in teaching and enhancing student learning experiences.

Uploaded by

Kainat
Copyright
© © All Rights Reserved
We take content rights seriously. If you suspect this is your content, claim it here.
Available Formats
Download as DOCX, PDF, TXT or read online on Scribd
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Critical Thinking and Reflective Practices (EDU406)

Assignment 1 (Spring 2025)


Student Name: Kainat Rafi
Roll no: bc250214567
Assignment Question
Q. Critically compare formal and informal reflection in teaching practice. In what
situations might one be more effective than the other, and why? Support your answer with
specific examples.
Formal and Informal Reflection in Teaching Practice: A Critical Comparison
Introduction
Reflection comes naturally to us as educators. Sometimes it occurs during a lesson, and other
times it occurs hours later while we're reflecting. Through reflection, we know what's going well,
what didn't, and what can be completed better the next time. The two primary categories are
formal and informal. Although both are useful, their functions and ideal operating environments
differ.
Formal and Informal Reflection
Formal reflection is systematic and structured. Writing in teacher journals, lesson planning,
attending workshops, and peer review are some of its activities. Formal reflection, which is
usually recorded, compels us to think about our teaching critically over time.
Informal reflection occurs spontaneously and naturally. "That activity did not work as
planned," or "I will try a different example next time," are just some of the short thoughts that
may be made during or immediately after class. It assists in making immediate changes although
it is seldom written down
When Informal Reflection Becomes More Effective
Informal reflection is most effective during a lesson or just after. This enables teachers to correct
things in the moment or just afterwards.
Example:
In my own classroom, I have a good lesson plan and attempt to have a warm classroom where
students will feel comfortable questioning. But at times, intended or unintended, students appear
perplexed. That is when I think on my feet and compensate. For example, in a math’s class, if the
students are unable to grasp a concept, I would change it to a visual aid or present another
example instantly. That thinking on my feet helps me to reply spontaneously.
Why It Works:
 Immediate action: Helps solve problems during teaching.
 Timesaving: Doesn’t interrupt the flow of the class.
 Student-centered: Allows me to respond based on how students are reacting in real time.

When Formal Reflection Is More Effective


Formal reflection is more effective when considering long-term teaching habits or assessing
whole units of instruction.
Example:
After having taught a grammar lesson in English for several weeks, I observed students were
having difficulty with sentence structure. Over the weekend, I looked over my lesson plans,
reviewed student tests, and even consulted with colleagues. I concluded that my method required
more interactive practice. From this reflection, I adjusted upcoming lessons to incorporate more
group activities and sentence-construction games.
Why It Works:
 Detailed assessment: Allows for patterns and areas of improvement to be detected.
 Supports growth: Good for professional development and setting goals.
 Documentation: Good when doing teacher evaluations and workshops.
Combining Both for Maximum Impact
The best teaching method is combining both informal and formal approaches. Informal helps me
be adaptable and make fast changes in or immediately after a lesson, whereas formal enables
careful consideration and planning over time. When these two are combined, they form a loop of
ongoing improvement—assisting me in meeting students' needs in the moment and also making
significant, strategic adjustments over time. This equilibrium makes my teaching stronger and
allows for an improved learning experience for my students.
Conclusion
Both formal and informal reflection are essential tools in a teacher’s journey. Informal reflection
keeps me responsive and adaptable during class, while formal reflection gives me the time and
structure to dig deeper, review patterns, and plan for lasting improvements. By combining both,
I’m not just reacting, I’m growing. This ongoing process helps me provide the best possible
education to every student, every day.

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