Reflection for Action: Unlocking Professional Growth in English Language Teaching
September 15, 2025
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Reflection is a powerful tool for English language teachers. In Part 2 of their collaboration with the DIESOL Podcast team, Shé and Anna of The Teacher Think-Aloud Podcast pick up their conversation with Brent Warner and Ixchell Reyes and explore the nuances of reflective practice, moving beyond foundational theories to actionable steps. From unexpected "golden moments" of inspiration during a dream or a walk to the more structured approaches of journaling and goal-setting, the hosts and guests share personal experiences and insights on making reflection a meaningful part of a teacher's professional life.
"Reflection doesn’t have to be polished. It just has to be honest—that’s how you’re going to get the most out of it!" —Shélynn Riel
The episode emphasizes that reflection doesn't have to be a daunting task. It can be iterative, allowing teachers to discover what works best for them without the pressure of perfection. The discussion highlights the importance of carving out dedicated time for reflection, even if it's just a few minutes, to foster professional growth and prevent burnout. They introduce the concept of "Reflection for Action," where insights from past experiences guide future planning and long-term professional development goals.
The team also dives into innovative tech tools that can enhance reflective practice, such as "Future Me" for sending future self-emails, Marco Polo for asynchronous video conversations, video recordings for self-observation, and AI chatbots as reflective partners. The episode also underscores the invaluable role of accountability partners and professional learning networks. If you're looking to transform your teaching practice and discover new ways to reflect, tune into the full episode for a rich and inspiring discussion!
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