Gibbs vs. Schön

Attribute	Gibbs	Schön
Definition	Reflective practice model	Reflective practitioner model
Focus	Learning from experience	Professional development
Key Concepts	Experience, reflection, action	Reflection-in-action, reflection-on-action
Application	Widely used in education and healthcare	Applied in various professional fields

Background

Gibbs and Schön are two prominent theorists in the field of education and reflective practice. Both have made significant contributions to the understanding of how professionals learn and develop through reflection. While they share some similarities in their approaches, there are also key differences that set them apart.

Definition of Reflective Practice

Gibbs' reflective cycle is a structured model that guides individuals through the process of reflection. It consists of six stages: description, feelings, evaluation, analysis, conclusion, and action plan. This model encourages individuals to systematically reflect on their experiences and identify areas for improvement. On the other hand, Schön's concept of reflection-in-action emphasizes the importance of thinking on your feet and adapting in real-time. He argues that professionals often rely on their intuition and tacit knowledge to make decisions in complex situations.

Approach to Learning

One of the key differences between Gibbs and Schön is their approach to learning. Gibbs' model is more linear and structured, with a clear progression from describing an experience to developing an action plan. This approach is well-suited for individuals who prefer a systematic and methodical way of reflecting. In contrast, Schön's emphasis on reflection-in-action is more fluid and dynamic. He believes that learning occurs through experimentation and adaptation, rather than following a predetermined process.

Role of Emotions

Another important distinction between Gibbs and Schön is their view on the role of emotions in reflective practice. Gibbs' model includes a stage for exploring feelings, recognizing the impact of emotions on decision-making. This allows individuals to gain a deeper understanding of their reactions and behaviors. Schön, on the other hand, focuses more on the cognitive aspects of reflection, such as problem-solving and decision-making. While he acknowledges the influence of emotions, he places greater emphasis on the rational aspects of learning.

Application in Practice

Both Gibbs and Schön's theories have been widely used in various professional fields, such as education, healthcare, and business. Gibbs' reflective cycle is often employed in formal settings, such as training programs and professional development workshops. Its structured approach provides a clear framework for individuals to reflect on their experiences and improve their practice. Schön's concept of reflection-in-action, on the other hand, is more suited for dynamic and unpredictable environments, where professionals need to think on their feet and adapt quickly.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Gibbs and Schön offer valuable insights into the process of reflective practice. While Gibbs' model provides a structured framework for reflection, Schön's emphasis on reflection-in-action highlights the importance of adaptability and intuition in learning. Both approaches have their strengths and weaknesses, and the choice of which to use ultimately depends on the individual's learning style and the context in which they are applying reflective practice.