week 8

Question 1

What is reflective practice in OT?

Answer 1

A lifelong process of learning from experiences—turning information into knowledge and wisdom through consistent self-evaluation and improvement. (Larkin & Pepin, 2013)

Question 2

Why is reflection essential in occupational therapy?

Answer 2

It helps OTs understand themselves and their practice. Without reflection, it’s hard to grow or effectively enable others—central to the OT role.

Question 3

What are the levels of reflection?

Answer 3

1. Habitual Action (non-reflective)
   
   2. Descriptive
   3. Understanding
   4. Reflection
   5. Critical Reflection (includes change due to reflection)

Question 4

How is reflection different from simply reporting what happened?

Answer 4

Reflection involves critical thinking—linking theory, personal insight, and context to make sense of events and guide future action.

Question 5

What are the three types of reflection?

Answer 5

• Reflection-for-action (before)
  
  • Reflection-in-action (during)
  • Reflection-on-action (after)

Question 6

What are the six stages of Gibbs’ reflective cycle?

Answer 6

1. Description
   
   2. Feelings
   3. Evaluation
   4. Analysis
   5. Conclusion
      Action Plan

Question 7

What tools help develop reflective practice?

Answer 7

• Reflective journals
  
  • Essays
  • Clinical supervision
  • Storytelling
  • Discussing experiences with peers/mentors

Question 8

How do learning styles relate to reflective practice?

Answer 8

Some students naturally reflect, others may need structured support. Knowing your learning style helps you become a better reflective learner.

Question 9

What are the outcomes of effective reflection?

Answer 9

• New insights
  
  • Identifying learning needs
  • Behavioral change
  • Clearer future actions
  • Stronger critical thinking

Question 10

How does reflection support lifelong learning in OT?

Answer 10

Reflection bridges new knowledge and practice, helping OTs grow continuously and adapt to meet clients’ evolving needs.

Question 11

Why are site visits great for reflection?

Answer 11

• Your fit with OT
  
  • Professional conduct
  • What you’ve learned so far
    How you’re managing uni life

Question 12

What role does documentation play in OT?

Answer 12

It ensures clear communication, justifies care, tracks progress, and supports accountability in clinical and community settings.

Question 13

Is documentation something you’re born good at?

Answer 13

No—it’s a skill that improves through practice, just like reflection. Every OT develops it over time