The Action-reflection model

Ross Woods, rev. Sep. '16

 

The Action-reflection model (which I call the Coalface model) comprises two main components.

The left-hand side is the action component. Students need to do the job at the coalface with real people in real situations learning real skills. That's why the student is placed at the coalface. But to learn effectively, the student needs someone on-site as a mentor or trainer to monitor progress, and to give encouragement and instruction.

The right-hand side is the reflection component. Students need time to reflect on what they do, ask the bigger "why?" questions (developing theory), meet peers who are going through similar experiences, and get input that is not available at the coalface. It may be in a classroom situation, or it may be at a much wider gathering.