Each student is required to write an individual reflective essay about their personal experiences relating to the Collaborative Project module. Typically, a student would engage in critical reflection about issues related to collaboration, team dynamics, their personal role, leadership and communication issues, as well as the process of achieving the project outcomes together. Considering the CP process, we expect students to make use of the weekly CP sessions to ensure thoughts are captured throughout the project.
To support this process, we will provide students with an opportunity to capture their reflections via a short online survey (with questions sent out each week and after each CP seminar). The short answers are limited to 280 characters – the same as a twitter message – and they need to be given within 24hrs. This is to enable reflection in situ, i.e. on the same or next day. Additionally, students can download the bulk of their reflections at the end of the module (CP session 9) to engage in further reflection and to use their captured experiences, thoughts, feelings and readings in connection with their assignment. We also offer students support classes on reflective writing. Students are strongly advised to make use of these classes.
The individual reflection assessment task includes guidelines that highlight the importance of connecting personal experiences and reflections with academic theory. As such, students are expected to reflect on their personal experiences using appropriate frameworks and literature. In the first instance, Project Leaders should direct students to the dedicated ‘Reflective Practice’ site on Learn, as well as ‘The Reflective Practice – A Guide for Students’ and other useful literature. In addition, the Project Leaders are supplied with ‘CP tool cards’ that can be used for ‘reflection on action’ within teams or by individuals.
Finally, the library staff are at hand to support students and we will make references and an online video available to guide students in relation to the assignment.
