Reflective thinking means to step back from the situation, pause to observe the situation in a natural environment, examining the evidence to see whether it is revalent to the criteria and context of judgment. This allows reason to look at the evidence with an open mind, see the consequences with a systematic approach to problem solving.
Reflective thinking allows us to look at all we have explored in regards to solving a problem using critical and creative thinking, reasoning e.t.c.
As a whole and not as separate step within the process taking in it's long term effects, actions and consequences.
Andrea,
Deliberately assimilating information for long-term, intellectual growth. Well stated.
Dr. S. David Vaillancourt
Reflective thinking really allows you to grow. By stopping to evaluate, you are absorbing the information more completely for future use, and creating connections that tether it to the things that you already know. This information is then part of your understanding of the world, and can be applied to future problems.
Deb,
Very good example. Pausing to take in account available information is a key.
Dr. S. David Vaillancourt
Reflective thinking reminds me of the expression "look before you leap." With reflective thinking we pause to more thoroughly observe the situation before we "jump" into action.
I like the anecdote of the fishing guide who has clients watch the environment and other fisherman prior to casting their own lines. The story relates to my recent experiences volunteering at a dog shelter. There are over 80 dogs on site, each with unique personalities. By watching the director and more experienced volunteers, I have gained valuable insight on how to approach many of the dogs. I've learned from their examples instead of completely relying on "trial and error."
Mindi,
As the old saying goes - the definition of insanity.
Dr. S. David Vaillancourt
Jeffery,
Nice work. This is often a reasonable trade-off.
Dr. S. David Vaillancourt
People try to fix problems by doing the same thing to solve them. Reflective thinking makes them look back and see that doing things the way you always do them and getting the same results is not problem solving.
I am more of this type. I more times than not need to reflect on a long term problem than a quick fix. We from time to time reset the classroom to add and take away as needed but i need to reflect on long term and will time and student body be able to handle the changes needed. But when we need a fast decision I want imput from others involved to see all angles and points of view so we see the picture in same light!
Maria,
Yes, this is the main benefit of using reflective thinking. Good point.
Dr. S. David Vaillancourt
Sometime when we have to deal with a problem with think about different solutions. we have to stop and do some "Critical thinking" to analyze and make sure that the decision we take is the right one.
bobbe,
Yes, I am very familiar with that 'method.' ;-] This is why experience is such a good teacher. As our experience increases, so does the value of reflection that incorporates all of those cumulative experiences. Thank you for sharing your insights.
Dr. S. David Vaillancourt
I have found that reflective thinking may not help me at that moment regarding a problem or situation, but down the line after tossing things around in my mind, I come up with answers to problems that I have pondered over. Usually happens in the middle of the night, and I wake up with a billiant idea, solution, etc. Now that is reflective thinking.
Stan,
This is an excellent example. Careful collection and analysis of accurate data is essential. And, as in your case, creativity in the data collection methodology. These basic components are critical to allowing the scientific methos to work. Thank you for your contribution.
Dr. S. David Vaillancourt
Edward,
Well stated. The critical thinking process is much like it's close brother, the scientific method. It is a specific process to be implemented in many different circumstances. Well done.
Dr. S. David Vaillancourt
I was educated in the life sciences. For my Masters Thesis, I did a study on "hilltopping behavior" of butterflies. It was through careful observation and testing of my hypothesis that I was able to solve the problem. It was found that the males would seek territories at hilltops and when a female flew into that male's territory that they bred. This could not have been discovered with out careful observation and ingenuity to test my hypothesis.
Reflective thinking usually results in new, more relevant solutions to problems. The process of critical thinking cannot be considered a "cookie-cutter" process.
Each new problem can be partially solved based on existing data, assumptions, and past decisions, but in most cases, each problem requires the critical thinker to reflect and thoroughly analyze the problem as a new, one-of-a-kind opportunity to expand their research and exhaust all possible solutions.
David,
Very good. An accurate definition of the problem using reflective thinking can be key to moving in the right direction for an effective solution.
Dr. S. David Vaillancourt
The benefits of reflective thinking are huge in an age of the intantaneous gratification of digital information. I often find that with a pause for reflection my students can focus with greater acumen what the core issue of any problem might be, and have both the ability to think creatively within the reflection and achieve higher success rate in the arrival of an effective solution.
