Donald Schon vs. Gibbs

Attribute	Donald Schon	Gibbs
Reflective practice	Emphasizes reflection on action	Emphasizes reflection in action
Learning process	Focuses on learning through experience	Focuses on learning through reflection
Problem-solving approach	Views problems as opportunities for learning	Encourages problem-solving through reflection
Professional development	Integral to professional growth	Integral to improving practice

Background

Donald Schon and Gibbs are two prominent figures in the field of reflective practice. Schon was an influential thinker in the areas of organizational learning and professional development, while Gibbs is known for his reflective cycle model that is widely used in education and healthcare. Both Schon and Gibbs have made significant contributions to the understanding of reflective practice and its importance in improving professional performance.

Attributes of Donald Schon

Donald Schon was a renowned scholar and educator who focused on the concept of "reflection-in-action." He believed that professionals should engage in ongoing reflection to improve their practice and adapt to changing circumstances. Schon emphasized the importance of experiential learning and the ability to think critically in complex situations. His work has had a lasting impact on fields such as education, management, and architecture.

Schon's approach to reflective practice was characterized by a focus on the process of learning from experience. He encouraged professionals to question their assumptions, challenge their beliefs, and explore new ways of thinking. Schon believed that reflection could lead to transformative learning experiences that would enhance professional growth and development.

One of the key attributes of Schon's work is his emphasis on the role of uncertainty and ambiguity in professional practice. He argued that professionals often face situations that are not easily resolved through traditional problem-solving methods. Schon believed that reflective practice could help individuals navigate these complex and uncertain situations by encouraging them to explore different perspectives and consider alternative solutions.

Schon's work has been influential in shaping the way professionals approach their practice and engage in continuous learning. His ideas have been widely adopted in fields such as education, healthcare, and business, where reflective practice is seen as a key component of professional development. Schon's emphasis on the importance of reflection-in-action has helped to highlight the value of ongoing learning and adaptation in today's fast-paced and ever-changing world.

Attributes of Gibbs

Gibbs is best known for his reflective cycle model, which provides a structured framework for individuals to reflect on their experiences and identify areas for improvement. The Gibbs reflective cycle consists of six stages: description, feelings, evaluation, analysis, conclusion, and action plan. This model has been widely used in education and healthcare settings to help professionals reflect on their practice and enhance their learning.

One of the key attributes of Gibbs' reflective cycle is its focus on emotions and feelings as part of the reflective process. By encouraging individuals to explore their emotional responses to a situation, the Gibbs model helps to deepen their understanding of the experience and its impact on their practice. This emotional dimension is often overlooked in other reflective models, making Gibbs' approach unique and valuable.

Gibbs' reflective cycle also emphasizes the importance of critical evaluation and analysis in the reflective process. By encouraging individuals to assess the effectiveness of their actions and consider alternative approaches, the Gibbs model helps to promote a deeper level of reflection and learning. This focus on evaluation and analysis is essential for professionals seeking to improve their practice and enhance their performance.

Another key attribute of Gibbs' work is his emphasis on the importance of taking action based on the insights gained through reflection. The final stage of the Gibbs reflective cycle involves creating an action plan to implement changes in practice and address areas for improvement. This focus on action and implementation sets Gibbs' model apart from other reflective approaches and highlights the practical value of reflective practice in professional development.

Gibbs' reflective cycle has been widely adopted in a variety of settings, including education, healthcare, and social work, where reflective practice is seen as a valuable tool for enhancing learning and improving performance. The structured nature of the Gibbs model makes it accessible and easy to use, making it a popular choice for professionals looking to engage in reflective practice and enhance their professional development.

Comparison

While Schon and Gibbs have different approaches to reflective practice, they share some common attributes that have contributed to their influence in the field. Both Schon and Gibbs emphasize the importance of reflection in improving professional practice and enhancing learning. They both believe that reflection is a key component of professional development and that it can lead to transformative learning experiences.

One of the key differences between Schon and Gibbs is their focus on the process of reflection. Schon's work emphasizes the role of reflection-in-action and the importance of ongoing learning and adaptation in professional practice. Gibbs, on the other hand, provides a structured framework for reflection through his reflective cycle model, which guides individuals through a series of stages to help them reflect on their experiences and identify areas for improvement.

Another difference between Schon and Gibbs is their emphasis on emotions and feelings in the reflective process. While Schon's work focuses on critical thinking and problem-solving, Gibbs' model encourages individuals to explore their emotional responses to a situation and consider the impact of these feelings on their practice. This emotional dimension is a unique aspect of Gibbs' approach to reflective practice and sets his model apart from other reflective frameworks.

Despite these differences, both Schon and Gibbs have made significant contributions to the field of reflective practice and have helped to highlight the importance of reflection in professional development. Their work has had a lasting impact on fields such as education, healthcare, and business, where reflective practice is seen as a valuable tool for enhancing learning and improving performance. By emphasizing the value of reflection and providing practical frameworks for engaging in reflective practice, Schon and Gibbs have helped to promote a culture of continuous learning and adaptation in today's fast-paced and ever-changing world.