Barriers to Reflective Practice

Abstract

Reflective practice is seen as the way forward for both students and academics alike and there is much research that shows that reflective practice leads to better learning. This article, whilst acknowledging that reflective practice is something to which we should strive, recognizes that there are many other considerations that will have to be dealt with by the sector before its use will be universally accepted. The main consideration, probably more than anything else, is the demotivated staff within the higher education environment. It is suggested that this de-motivation occursbecause of lack of resources, lack of recognition, overwork and lack of appreciation of the additional burdens put on academics, and invariably the institutions themselves, by widening participation and lifelong learning initiatives. Therefore, it is suggested that universal reflective practice may come in the longterm but only once the deeper-seated problems within the sector are resolved.