Comparison Between Reflection-On-Action and Reflection-In-Action
In order to effectively achieve the objectives of reflective practise, several models and theories have been formulated to facilitate the process of reflection. Reflection has, over time, been divided into two main categories namely reflection-on-action and reflection-in-action. Reflection-on-action refers to the retrospective contemplation of practice undertaken in order to uncover the knowledge used in practical situations, by analysing and interpreting the information recalled (Fitzgerald, 1994). Therefore, it involves looking back after the event has occurred. It involves the turning of information into knowledge by use of a post mortem done cognitively. It is also believed that this kind of reflection does not only increase one’s knowledge but also challenges the theories and concepts held by a person (Bolton 2004). Reflection-in-action on the other hand refers to thinking about what one is doing whilst one is doing it; it is typically stimulated by surprise, by something