Becoming Self-Reflective: Caring for Self & Others

Abstract

Depicted is the authors’ model for reflective practice. Theoretical underpinnings of the model include Dewey’s theory of experience, principles of adult learning, feminist pedagogy, and Rogers’ theory of unitary man and phenomenology. At the core of the reflective process is a focus on self-awareness and caring for self. As this reflective process unfolds there is movement toward broadening the focus to what it means to be human with emphasis on a range of human experiences. The reflective model demonstrates how one moves from the process of self-reflection and self-understanding toward more awareness and understanding of the experience of others. The aim of the model as an educational approach is to facilitate a culture of caring.