Critically reflective practice

TLDR

Critical reflection is a key feature of effective continuing health education, yet its definition, recognition, benefits, and integration into practice remain unclear. The article aims to clarify the elements of critical reflection and illustrate its application in continuous formative evaluation. It outlines four critical lenses for educators and introduces a critical incident questionnaire to guide reflective practice. The authors propose that cultivating a critically reflective habit is essential for health educators' survival.

Abstract

The concept of critical reflection is frequently invoked as a distinguishing feature of good practice in continuing health education. But what exactly is critical reflection? How is it recognized? What are its benefits? How can it be incorporated into professional practice? This article explains the constituent elements of critical reflection and provides an example of how a critically reflective approach can be taken toward continuous, formative evaluation. Four lenses through which educators can view their practice critically are outlined and the critical incident questionnaire is described. The critically reflective habit is proposed as a survival necessity for continuing health educators.