Lesson Segment: Practice - Checking for Understanding through Reflection
Overview
In this lesson segment, we will focus on checking for understanding by encouraging adult learners to reflect on the learning intentions and success criteria established at the start of the course. This session will help learners engage with the content critically and assess their own learning outcomes in relation to the set criteria.
Objectives
- To enable learners to identify and articulate the learning intentions.
- To facilitate reflections on personal success and areas for improvement concerning the success criteria.
- To foster a collaborative environment for sharing insights and feedback.
Activity: Reflective Group Discussions
Duration
30-45 minutes
Materials Needed
- Whiteboard and markers
- Sticky notes (various colours)
- Reflection Prompts handout
- Success Criteria Checklist
Procedure
1. Revise Learning Intentions and Success Criteria (5-10 minutes)
- Start by revisiting the learning intentions and success criteria with the group. Write them on the whiteboard for visibility.
- Engage the class in a brief discussion:
- What do these terms mean to you?
- How do they frame your understanding of the course content?
2. Individual Reflection (10 minutes)
- Hand out the Reflection Prompts, which include questions such as:
- What did you learn today that connected with the learning intentions?
- In which areas do you feel you met the success criteria?
- What challenges did you encounter and how could you overcome them?
- Ask learners to reflect individually and jot down their thoughts on sticky notes. Each learner should use a different colour sticky note for each category (learning, success met, challenges).
3. Group Sharing (15-20 minutes)
- Organise learners into small groups of 4-5.
- Instruct each member of the group to share their sticky notes, starting with their reflections on the learning intentions, followed by success criteria, and then the challenges they faced.
- Encourage them to discuss:
- Key takeaways
- Common challenges
- Strategies for improvement
- Ask groups to cluster their sticky notes on a large piece of paper to visually represent their reflections.
4. Gallery Walk (Optional, 10 minutes)
- If time allows, host a gallery walk where each group displays their clustered reflections.
- Learners can walk around, read others’ reflections, and leave constructive comments or additional ideas on sticky notes.
Conclude the Activity
At the end of the session, bring everyone back together as a whole class. Ask a few volunteers to share insights from their discussions. Highlight common themes and propose ways to address challenges in future lessons.
Tips for Success
- Foster an open and respectful environment where learners feel comfortable sharing their reflections.
- Encourage critical thinking by prompting participants to consider how they can apply their insights in practical settings.
Reflection and Feedback
To ensure continuous improvement, gather feedback from learners about the reflective practice they experienced. Use a simple survey or feedback form, focusing on the efficacy of the activity and areas for further development.
By engaging adult learners in this reflective practice, we empower them to take ownership of their learning journey and refine their understanding against defined learning outcomes.