EDU406 - Critical Thinking and Reflective Practices Assignment 1 Fall 2025 Idea Solution

Critical Thinking and Reflective Practices (EDU406)

Assignment 1 (Fall 2025) — Total Marks: 15 | Topics: 13–18

Question:

Briefly explain the concept of reflexivity. Critically analyse how it informs the reflective process in achieving best teaching practices. Support your discussion with relevant examples to justify your viewpoint. (15 Marks)

Answer:

Concept of Reflexivity

Reflexivity refers to the ongoing process of self-examination and awareness through which teachers critically evaluate their own beliefs, values, and actions in the context of teaching and learning. It involves looking inward to understand how personal experiences, assumptions, and emotions influence professional decisions and interactions with students. Unlike simple reflection, which focuses on “what happened,” reflexivity asks “why it happened” and “how my role or perspective shaped the outcome.” It emphasizes the teacher’s conscious effort to connect theory with practice while continuously adjusting teaching methods based on insight and feedback.

Role of Reflexivity in Reflective Practice

Reflexivity deepens the reflective process by making teachers more aware of how their own identity, cultural background, and biases influence classroom practices. Through reflexivity, teachers move beyond surface-level reflection to a critical understanding of how personal and contextual factors affect student learning. This self-awareness allows teachers to refine pedagogical approaches, adopt inclusive methods, and respond sensitively to diverse learning needs.

For instance, a teacher who notices that quieter students rarely participate may reflect not only on the classroom dynamics but also on their own questioning techniques and communication style. By recognizing that their approach may unintentionally discourage participation, the teacher can implement strategies such as think–pair–share or anonymous polling to encourage equitable engagement. Similarly, reflexivity helps teachers examine their expectations about students’ abilities and adjust assessment practices to be more fair and supportive.

Moreover, reflexivity contributes to the professional growth of teachers by linking self-analysis with continuous improvement. When teachers critically evaluate how their teaching philosophy aligns with real classroom experiences, they become more adaptable and open to innovation. This leads to evidence-based practices that enhance both teaching effectiveness and student learning outcomes. Reflexivity thus transforms routine reflection into a powerful tool for achieving best teaching practices by fostering critical awareness, empathy, and intentional change.

In summary, reflexivity is the foundation of effective reflective practice. It enables teachers to become active learners of their own teaching, using self-awareness and critical analysis to make informed, ethical, and context-sensitive decisions that elevate the quality of education.

Note: This answer is provided as just an Example of the Assignment Solution. Please read it carefully and rephrase it in your own words before submission.