I think reflective thinking forces people to look in the world and compare their values to other ideas and concepts. That forces a person to reevaluate their ideas and create the best solution to a problem.
The word FOCUS comes to mind when I consider reflective thinking. The abilily to "zero in" on a particular problem and to shut out much of the noise/distractions around you has to assist in concentration.
Marivic,
Your observations ring true for me. The length of time is not always important, however following through to a comprehensive solution and not hurrying to the most expedient is usually best. Thanks for sharing.
Dr. S. David Vaillancourt
June,
Yes, that broader picture to include circumstances outside of the current circumstance is very important. Very good point. Thank you for sharing.
Dr. S. David Vaillancourt
Margarita,
I believe you are right to indicate the positive impact of an alternate perspective. Sometimes rushing to the rapid fix of one challenge may work to fix that challenge, but create additional challenges. Thank you for your contribution.
Dr. S. David Vaillancourt
Problem solving utilizes a lot of reasoning, analysis and critical thinking. Sometimes, people can get so engrossed in the problem solving aspect, they fail to take a step back and observe the situation from afar.
This is where reflective thinking can be beneficial. Sometimes all it takes is a moment of observation and reflection, then things fall into place and start to make sense. A lot of times, hours upon hours of time are wasted analyzing the wrong information. Reflective thinking helps to ensure that all aspects of the situation are accounted for, and if done correctly, will highlight an area of focus that will hopefully lead to a solution.
Reflective thinking is key in business when things need to change and are not going as they should be. When something is broken in an organization, taking that moment to reflect and identify the problem at what did work and what didn't is the first step in finding the remedy. The more one is able to think of solutions outside the box, the better it beomes for all parties concerned.
Quebec,
Yes, application to real life is a key goal. Very good points. Thanks for sharing.
Dr. S. David Vaillancourt
To solve a problem is just that.."Solve a Problem", no real effert or research, just a rapid solution to fix whatever is not woking at that precise moment - no long term solution. Reflective Thinking is like having an "out of body experience". You have to step away from a problem and look at it from a different view. Try to create a 3D image of what's going on, put the pieces of the puzzle together and if something doesn't "fit" try and figure out why? before forcing a solution.
With reflective thinking, individuals will spend time thinking about things before coming to a random conclusion. When students enroll in a class, they are expecting to receive new or relevant information that they can apply both in their personal and professional lives. By requiring reflective thinking on the topics and objectives in the course, students will be able to gain more knowledge and look at how it can be applied in their daily lives.
Deborah,
Excellent summary. Adding this depth to the process by "stepping back" often adds quality to life for those who are affected by the better decisions that come from the process. Thank you for sharing your insights.
Dr. S. David Vaillancourt
As stated in the module, reflective thought is taking a step back, pausing and trying to observe all that can be observed about the situation. In order to find a solution to a problem, one has to consider all the options and weigh each. Making a quick decision can be a disaster. Reflective thought you can look at a solution and think of the possible consequences if it is chosen. By doing the stepping back task, one can come to a decision about which direction to go to solve the problem. Not doing this step can result in making a bad decision like Wendy's. It wasn't until Dave Thomas talked to the customers that a practical solution was conceived. Just imagine if he had done this earlier how much money he could have saved.
The benefits of reflective thinking are better decision making, saving money, and choosing the best solution to the problem that will work and is practical.
Esther,
Yes, some situations require some 'marinating' time so you get to the very real, but hidden, nuances that significantly influence the circumstances. Good post.
Dr. S. David Vaillancourt
I believe a huge benefit of reflective thinking is just stepping back, observing the problem, and then forming the the best solution to that problem. Often people like to rush through a problem and come up with an answer that might be convenient at that particular moment, but if you just step back and observe for a minute, a solution that will be the best for all involved will come about.
Deborah,
That is a good point. Using reflective thinking in a metacognitive approach could provide some significant benefits. Good thoughts - thanks.
Dr. S. David Vaillancourt
I believe a benefit of reflective thinking in relation to problem solving is realizing a greater self awareness. Thus, allowing you to see what works well and possibly the approach you may decide to take.
Pamela,
Yes, reflective thinkiing can add to the long-term memory options for future use by formulating possible alternate scenarios of actual circumstances, thus providing a broader background of 'experience.'
Dr. S. David Vaillancourt
When you stop and reflect on how a situation played out then you learn what could have been done differently to make the situation end in with a differant outcome.
For instance if a dog starts growling, it doesn't mean let go of the leash in most situations but if you had not taken the time to analyze another time when a dog growled at you the situation could possible escilate to one that could have been controlled.
julia,
Very good. Thank you for sharing your insights.
Dr. S. David Vaillancourt
I try to allow time for students to solve problems that are case studies regarding problems that will come up in a clinic setting.
