Reflective writing: a management skill

Abstract

Reflective writing: a management skill. AbstractPurpose: This study analyses students' reflective writing in terms of identifiable outcomes and explores students' thoughts on reflection and reflective writing as a process.Methodology: A mixed methods approach was taken with a qualitative analysis of 116 written reflections from MA Librarianship studying management over an eight month period. A quantitative statistical analysis assessed the relationships between reflective writing and a number of possible outcomes identified from the literature.Findings: A significant relationship was found between 7 of 8 outcomes tested; (1) academic learning, (2) the need for self development, (3) actual self development, (4) critical review, (5) awareness of ones' own mental functions, (6) decision making and (7) empowerment and emancipation. There was some evidence of a relationship between non-academic learning and reflective writing, but it was not significant. A number of themes emerged from the reflective writings regarding reflection itself, with students seeing reflection as a positive activity, with benefits for the individual, groups and in the workplace, and identifying reflection as a skill that can be practiced and developed.Research limitations: The reflection took place as an academic exercise and as such that is likely to have impacted on the nature of reflective content.Practical implications: Reflection and reflective writing as a management skill has potential benefits for personal and professional development and improving work based practice.Originality: This study differs from the previous literature in presenting statistical evidence to confirm the relationships between reflective writing and a range of potential outcomes. Research paper.

Reflective practice in the library and information sector

“…Writing can increase awareness of situations and experiences (Sen, 2010), enabling the exploration of different perspectives (Moon, 2007). It can help individuals to see the link between past, present and future (Sen, 2010) and to develop connections between external events and internal processes (Hubbs and Brand, 2005).…”

“…Moon (2007) outlines different levels of reflective writing, from superficial, descriptive accounts to deeply analytical accounts, which include emotional responses, and a recognition that things could be done differently. Deeper reflection leads to better outcomes, such as self-development and personal empowerment (Sen, 2010).…”

“…Library organisations can benefit from the employment of reflective managers, who have greater awareness of self and the complexities of the work context (Sen, 2010).…”

“…Reflective writing is a skill which needs time to develop, and repeated practice, to become a habit (Sen, 2010).…”

“…Reflective writing is used to assess and monitor the competency of professionals (Chapman, Dempsey and Warren-Forward, 2009); to improve and extend practice (Edwards et al, 2009); to analyse business practices (Martin, 2003); to explore individual and team performances (Richards, Mascarenhas and Collins, 2009); for self-assessment (Shepherd, 2006); to assess students (Sen, 2010;Roberts, 2009;Moon, 2007); as part of a professional portfolio (Chapman, Dempsey and Warren-Forward, 2009) and in qualitative research (Ortlipp, 2008;McCormack, 2001). Reflective writing is a skill which needs time to develop, and repeated practice, to become a habit (Sen, 2010).…”