Gibbs Reflective Cycle : A Form of Kindness Among Teachers
By Emely Rodriguez
Kindness is a virtue that is often overlooked in today ’ s fastpaced and competitive world . However , in the field of education , kindness plays a crucial role in shaping the lives of students and creating a positive learning environment . One way that teachers can demonstrate kindness is through the use of Gibbs Reflective Cycle , a structured model for reflecting on experiences and improving practice .
The Gibbs Reflective Cycle consists of six stages : description , feelings , evaluation , analysis , conclusion , and action plan . This model encourages teachers to reflect on their teaching practices and interactions with students in order to identify areas for improvement and make positive changes . By taking the time to reflect on their experiences , in the company of their colleagues , teachers can gain valuable insights into their own streng t hs and weaknesses as educators .
One of the key benefits of using the Gibbs Reflective Cycle is that it promotes e m p a t h y a n d understanding among teachers and boys . By reflecting on their own experiences and emotions , teachers can develop a greater sense of empathy towards their students . This can help them to better understand the needs and perspectives of their students , leading to more effective teaching practices .
For example , a Lower School boy may make a statement to his teacher , “ You don ’ t care about me !” in a moment of frustration . This seemingly hurtful comment can be unpacked with one ’ s colleagues and reframed as a matter of the boy not feeling a part of the larger community and needing support in finding his way into the class
6 . Action Plan
5 . Conclusion
1 . Description
4 . Analysis as a member of the group . This depersonalization helps the teacher to come back to the boy with an open heart rather than shutting himself or herself off from further hurt .
In addition , the Gibbs Reflective Cycle also fosters a culture of continuous improvement among teachers . By regularly reflecting on their teaching practices and seeking feedback from colleagues and students , teachers can identify areas for growth and make positive changes to their practice . This commitment to ongoing reflection and improvement not only benefits individual teachers but also contributes to a more supportive and collaborative school community . In a recent workshop presentation for the International Boys ’
Schools Coalition , the
Gibbs Reflective Cycle was used to support an experienced teacher who was at wit ’ s end with a hyperactive middle school boy . In sharing all the solutions she had already tried , the participants listening to her recount her difficulties were able to assess the situation from a neutral perspective and make suggestions for additional options from their experience in channeling a boy ’ s energy in positive ways . The use of the Gibbs Reflective
Cycle helps to create a more inclusive learning environment for all students . By reflecting on their interactions with students from diverse backgrounds and experiences , teachers can also become more aware of potential biases or prejudices that may impact their teaching practice . This increased self-awareness can help teachers to create a more welcoming and inclusive classroom environment where all students feel valued and respected .
2 . Feelings
3 . Evaluation
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