Paper Details

Paper Session 3a: English Paper 8
Title Student Reflection in a Guided Learning Programme
Speaker
Dr. Yvonne Loong (The Chinese University of Hong Kong)
Time 11:30am - 12:00nn
Venue YIA 408
Abstract The presentation will report how a guided learning programme is implemented among 4 small groups of students and how their level of reflection has changed during the 10-week period in an independent learning centre in Hong Kong. Following a four-step process, i.e. (1) Being ready to learn; (2) Setting learning goals; (3) Engaging in the learning process through reflection; and (4) Evaluating learning, students are engaged in a variety of activities both in weekly meetings and beyond. Data collected include (1) students' learning biographies which they describe their English learning experience and critical incidents which have shaped their way of looking at language learning before the start of the programme; (2) students' learning style survey results; and (3) their reflection journals which are completed after each meeting. Results suggest that students' guided learning experiences are generally positive and their motivation in learning has improved. Using the simplified version of a coding scheme and rubric developed by Kember, et al (1999), the analysis of the content from their weekly journals showed that students’ level of reflection has deepened throughout the 10-week period. Discussion on how to further enhance students' guided learning experience and promote continuous independent learning at the university level will be discussed at the end of the presentation.

Kember, D., Jones, A., Loke, A.Y., McKay, J., Sinclair, K., and Wong, F. (1999). Determining the level of reflective thinking from students’ written journals using a coding scheme based on the work of Mezirow. International Journal of Lifelong Education, 18(1).