Brookfield Reflective Model vs. Rolfe Reflective Model

Attribute	Brookfield Reflective Model	Rolfe Reflective Model
Origin	Developed by Stephen Brookfield	Developed by Gary Rolfe
Focus	Focuses on critical reflection	Focuses on experiential learning
Process	Four lenses of reflection: our autobiography, our learners' eyes, our colleagues' experiences, and theoretical literature	Three questions: What? So what? Now what?
Goal	To challenge assumptions and perspectives	To promote personal and professional growth

Introduction

Reflective practice is an essential component of professional development in various fields, including education, healthcare, and social work. Two popular models used for reflective practice are the Brookfield Reflective Model and the Rolfe Reflective Model. Both models provide a structured framework for individuals to reflect on their experiences, but they have distinct attributes that set them apart. In this article, we will compare and contrast the key features of these two reflective models.

Brookfield Reflective Model

The Brookfield Reflective Model, developed by Stephen Brookfield, is based on the idea that reflection should be a critical and transformative process. This model emphasizes the importance of questioning assumptions, exploring different perspectives, and challenging existing beliefs. The Brookfield Reflective Model consists of four lenses through which individuals can reflect on their experiences: the autobiographical lens, the students' eyes lens, the colleagues' experiences lens, and the theoretical literature lens. By examining their experiences through these different lenses, individuals can gain a deeper understanding of themselves and their practice.

Rolfe Reflective Model

The Rolfe Reflective Model, developed by Gary Rolfe, is a structured framework that guides individuals through the process of reflection. This model consists of three simple questions: What? So what? Now what? The first question prompts individuals to describe a specific experience or situation. The second question encourages individuals to explore the significance of this experience and consider its impact on their practice. The third question focuses on identifying practical steps for future action based on the insights gained through reflection.

Comparison of Attributes

• Structure: The Brookfield Reflective Model is structured around four lenses that individuals can use to reflect on their experiences, while the Rolfe Reflective Model is based on three simple questions that guide the reflective process.
• Depth of Reflection: The Brookfield Reflective Model encourages individuals to engage in critical reflection by questioning assumptions and exploring different perspectives, leading to a deeper understanding of themselves and their practice. In contrast, the Rolfe Reflective Model provides a more straightforward approach to reflection, focusing on describing experiences and identifying practical steps for future action.
• Focus: The Brookfield Reflective Model emphasizes the importance of examining experiences from multiple perspectives, including personal, student, colleague, and theoretical viewpoints. On the other hand, the Rolfe Reflective Model focuses on exploring the significance of a specific experience and identifying actionable steps for improvement.
• Application: The Brookfield Reflective Model is well-suited for individuals who prefer a more in-depth and critical approach to reflection, while the Rolfe Reflective Model may be more suitable for those who prefer a simpler and more practical framework for reflection.

Conclusion

Both the Brookfield Reflective Model and the Rolfe Reflective Model offer valuable tools for individuals seeking to engage in reflective practice. While the Brookfield Reflective Model encourages critical reflection through the use of multiple lenses, the Rolfe Reflective Model provides a more straightforward and practical approach to reflection. Ultimately, the choice between these two models will depend on individual preferences and the specific goals of the reflective practice. By understanding the attributes of each model, individuals can select the framework that best suits their needs and enhances their professional development.