How do I use the Korthagen reflection circle diagram?

Submitted by sarasl on Tue, 05/17/2011 - 13:45

The Korthagen methodology (2002) is mainly used to examine how  you operate in your professional life.

Sources: http://prosolva.org/spip/spip.php?article65
Korthagen, F.A.J. & Vasalos, A. (2002). Niveaus in reflectie: naar maatwerk in begeleiding. VELON-Tijdschrift voor lerarenopleiders, 23(1), p. 29-38.

  • Creating alternative methods of action
  • Trial and Action
  • Action/Experience
  • Looking back
  • Awareness of essential aspects

Phase 1: Describe the experience/situation you wish to reflect upon.

You can do this by using the STARR method: Situation-Task-Action-Result-Reflection

  • What was the actual situation?
  • What did I have to do in this situation?
  • What action did I actually take?
  • What was the outcome of this action?

Phase 2: Looking back: What exactly happened?

  • What did I see?
  • What did I do?
  • What did I think?
  • What did I feel?

Phase 3: Awareness of essential aspects

  • What does that mean to me now?
  • What is the problem (or the positive discovery)?
  • What has all that caused? What does it involve?

Phase 4: Alternative methods

  • What alternative methods do I see (solutions or ways of making use of what I have discovered)?
  • What are their advantages and disadvantages?
  • What will I remember for next time?

 Phase 5: Trial/action

  • What do I want to achieve?
  • What should I watch out for?
  • What do I want to try out?