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Reflection is a great teaching tool
Barry Runnels (barry_c_runnels@MMACMAIL.JCCBI.GOV)
Tue, 29 Sep 1998 14:52:05 -0600
>Reflection and evaluation can help youth leaders gain confidence in
>themselves as leaders, learn where their weaknesses and strengths are, and
>to delegate tasks to those who are better at them. They can also be very
>valuable to the planning process through reflecting on and evaluating past
>activities and setting goals to do better in the future. Reflection and
>evaluation can also help adult leaders determine where they need to focus
>their junior leader training efforts.
Robert Sinclair once wrote "We really don't learn anything from our own
experience. We only learn from reflecting on our experience."
Some people just naturally reflect their experiences. I wish I could do
that. I learned how to reflect at Wood Badge last year and it has change
the way I work with the Scouts. I started using reflection with my Webelos
and saw a lot of change in my meetings. Without saying it, they enjoyed the
reflections. Most meetings go so fast that the Scouts jump from one
activity to another without learning from the previous activity. Sitting
relaxed in a circle talking about the experience allows them time to think
about the activity at their own pace. Now I am using it more in Troop
situations and see positive results from them. It doesn't work well with
adults who want to manipulate the discussion or make sure his/her point
comes across. You have to allow and guide the Scouts to reach a conclusion.
I think reflection is one of our most powerful teaching tools. I have not
seen it taught anywhere in our Council except Wood Badge but I encourage
all our leaders to use it.
Have a great week.
Barry Runnels
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