Writing a Critical Reflection for Reinvention: an International Journal of Undergraduate Research
Understanding Critical Reflection
Currently by invitation only. If you are interested in writing a Critical Reflection for Reinvention, please contact fiona.o-brien@warwick.ac.uk
Critical reflection is an academic exercise that involves analysing an experience, event, or concept in depth. Unlike simple description or summary, critical reflection requires deeper engagement with the subject matter by questioning assumptions, evaluating different perspectives, and drawing connections between theory and practice. It allows individuals to examine their learning, identify areas for growth, and apply insights to future situations.
A well-written critical reflection demonstrates an understanding of key concepts, an awareness of personal biases, and an ability to synthesize different viewpoints. It should also incorporate theoretical frameworks and relevant academic sources to support interpretations and arguments. Reflection is an essential skill in both academic and professional contexts, as it fosters self-awareness, critical thinking, and continuous improvement.
Requirements for a Critical Reflection in Reinvention (phase 1 for IATL and agreed projects)
A 2,000-word critical appraisal of your IATL self-devised assessment (SDA) project, or other agreed research project, which reflects, appraises and discusses findings or new perspectives discovered by the work undertaken. A Critical Reflection paper can be written about any IATL SDA project.
Above all the Critical Reflection needs to be:
- Up to 2,000 words for main article, not including ancillary information such as the abstract, key words, glossary, references, appendix, bibliography and the SDA project it’s appraising.
- The SDA project as the focus of the Critical Reflection for IATL module students.
- Written to reflect, analyse, appraise and consider the SDA project’s impact in context and from new perspectives.
- Written for a broad readership not from your subject area or module. It must embrace the approach of learning beyond disciplines (an interdisciplinary approach).
- Clear and well-constructed paper for submission, including title, abstract, introduction, clear communication regarding intention of the SDA, include a reflective and analytical discussion providing context, a conclusion, followed by keywords, glossary, references and the SDA.
- Written in English.
Your submission checklist:
Prior to submitting your Critical Reflection article please ensure it meets the following criteria:
- Word count – The word count is up to 2,000 words. This only includes the core content of the article and does not include the research element, such as the Student Devised Assessment project, nor does it include additional information, such as the keywords, glossary, references and appendix.
- Document format: Please submit in a Word document, attaching pictures in jpeg, formulas and your SDA, via images, links or file attachments.
- Cover page: The first page is your title page. This page must include your full names, affiliations, institutions, department, title, postal addresses, telephone number and email address.
- Additional information: abstract, keywords, also consider the need for a glossary, footnotes, glossary, references, appendix, and bibliography.
- Abstract: After the title page include a 200-word abstract covering what you will discuss in the article, why you chose your angle for discussion, and what the outcomes mean in the context of your project and perspectives.
- Keywords: Authors should supply around six keywords for indexing and abstracting purposes. Keywords (which can be short phrases rather than individual words) should be as precise as possible to guide readers who are searching for an article on this subject. Imagine you were searching for your article online: which words or phrases would you use to search?
- Glossary: Authors should create a list to explain words or phrases which might be culturally specific or might be subject-specific.
- References, appendix, bibliography: You will need to consider including any references used. Please follow the reference guidelines in the Reinvention Style Guide. (LINK to Style Guide)/
- Include your student devised assessment (SDA), or other relevant project, and all supporting documents.
- Language: Written in English.
Structure of a Critical Reflection
A structured approach helps ensure that a critical reflection is coherent and insightful. Many reflective models can guide the process, including a framework such as Gibbs' Reflective Cycle and the DIEP (Describe, Interpret, Evaluate, Plan) framework. Regardless of the chosen model, an academic critical reflection typically follows a logical structure consisting of an introduction, body paragraphs, and a conclusion.
Title
Abstract
After the title page include a 200-word abstract covering what you will discuss in the article, why you chose your angle for discussion, and what the outcomes mean in the context of your project and perspectives.
Introduction
The introduction serves as the entry point to the reflection and should set the stage for the discussion. It should begin with a brief introduction to the topic, experience, or concept being reflected upon, providing necessary background information to help the reader understand the context.
A strong introduction should also include a clear thesis statement or central argument that outlines the main focus of the reflection. This helps to ensure that the reflection remains focused and analytical rather than becoming a simple recounting of events. Additionally, the introduction may briefly mention the reflective model or theoretical framework that will be used to analyse the experience.
Body Paragraphs
The body of the reflection should be well-structured, with each paragraph addressing a specific aspect of the reflection process. Using a step-by-step approach, such as the following breakdown, ensures clarity and depth in the analysis.
i. Description (What happened?)
The first section of the body should provide a concise description of the experience, event, or concept being reflected upon. It should answer key questions such as:
- What was the event or situation?
- Who was involved?
- What actions took place?
- What was your role in the experience?
The description should be factual and objective, avoiding excessive detail or personal anecdotes that are not relevant to the reflection. This section should provide enough context for the reader to understand what is being analysed while leaving room for deeper discussion in the following sections.
ii. Interpretation (What does it mean?)
In the interpretation stage, the focus shifts from what happened to what the experience means. This is the analytical core of the reflection, requiring critical thinking and engagement with academic sources. Key questions to consider include:
- Why was this experience significant?
- How did it make you feel, and why?
- What theoretical concepts or academic literature can help explain this experience?
- How does this experience relate to your previous knowledge or expectations?
This section should demonstrate a deeper understanding of the topic by linking personal experience to broader theories, frameworks, or academic discussions. Using scholarly sources to support interpretations adds credibility and strengthens the argument.
iii. Evaluation (What did you learn?)
The evaluation section involves assessing the impact of the experience and identifying key takeaways. It requires an honest analysis of strengths and weaknesses, considering both positive and negative aspects. Some guiding questions include:
- What worked well in this situation, and why?
- What were the challenges or difficulties faced?
- How did this experience confirm or challenge your prior assumptions?
- What biases or limitations may have influenced your interpretation?
A strong evaluation does not merely state what was learned but critically assesses the significance of the insights gained. Recognizing limitations, misunderstandings, or areas for improvement is a key part of critical reflection, as it demonstrates a willingness to grow and adapt.
iv. Future Planning (What will you do differently?)
The final section of the body should focus on the future application of the insights gained. Reflection is most valuable when it leads to meaningful change or improved decision-making. Consider the following questions:
- How will this reflection influence your future actions or thinking?
- What specific strategies will you use to improve in similar situations?
- How will you apply the theoretical knowledge gained from this experience?
This section should provide concrete steps or strategies for applying lessons learned. Whether in an academic, professional, or personal context, outlining a clear plan for future improvement ensures that the reflection is not merely a passive exercise but a tool for growth and development.
Conclusion
The conclusion should summarise the key insights gained from the reflection and reinforce the importance of the experience or concept being analysed. It should restate the main argument or thesis in light of the discussion in the body paragraphs. A strong conclusion should also address the broader significance of the reflection, considering its impact on personal, academic, or professional growth. It should leave the reader with a sense of closure while reinforcing the value of critical reflection as a learning tool.
Keywords
Authors should supply around six keywords for indexing and abstracting purposes. Keywords (which can be short phrases rather than individual words) should be as precise as possible, to guide readers who are searching for an article on this subject. Imagine you were searching for your article online: which words or phrases would you use to search?
Glossary
Authors should create a list to explain words or phrases which might be culturally specific or might be subject specific.
References
You will need to consider including any references used. Please follow the reference guidelines in the Reinvention Style Guide.
Footnotes
Appendix
This should include information about your self-devised assessment (SDA) or other research project. Copies of the creative outputs or web links to them. Ideally, copies in writing, or photographs to ensure the work remains available with the Critical Reflection into the future.
Bibliography
Examples of Critical Reflections in another journal
Vol. 12 No. 1 (2024): Autumn 2024 | Exchanges: The Interdisciplinary Research Journal