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Published on: May 14, 2010
Reflection as a Tool for Personal and Professional Development
Laura Aaron1, Joel Hicks2, Angela McKnight3
1Laura Aaron, PhD, R.T.(R)(M)(QM), FASRT, FAEIRS, is a professor in the School of Allied Health for Northwestern State University in Shreveport, Louisiana, carwilel@nsula.edu.
Experienced radiographers demonstrate superior critical reflection skills compared to radiography students, likely due to greater clinical experience. Both groups benefit from reflection for professional development and applying theory to practice.
Area of Science:
- Medical Imaging Education
- Radiography Professional Development
- Clinical Reflection Techniques
Background:
- Reflection is a key component in professional development for healthcare practitioners.
- Assessing the reflective capabilities of radiography students and practicing radiographers is crucial for educational program evaluation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate and compare the reflective abilities of radiography students and radiographers.
- To determine the effectiveness of reflection assignments in achieving learning outcomes.
Main Methods:
- Radiography students and radiographers completed reflection assignments in capstone courses.
- Responses were systematically evaluated against predetermined learning outcomes and objectives.
Main Results:
- Radiographers significantly outperformed radiography students on 10 out of 11 reflection objectives.
- This suggests greater clinical experience enhances critical reflection and application of theory.
Conclusions:
- While both groups can reflect, radiographers exhibit a higher capacity for critical reflection.
- Guided reflection is valuable for applying theoretical knowledge in clinical settings for both students and professionals.
- Findings can inform radiography program improvements and support continued professional development.
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