Reflective Journal

As you know, reflection is an important part of growing as an educator. In this journal, you will have the opportunity to reflect upon your learning in this course. It is appropriate to write your journal entries in first person. The journal prompts will have two parts. Refer to the First vs. Third Person (Links to an external site.) web page created by the Ashford Writing Center.

Part 1: Course/Program Reflection

• How do the concepts of exceptional learning and inclusion connect to what you have learned in other courses in your degree program?
• How has collaborating with students from various programs helped you to grow as an educator?

Part 2: Career/Personal Reflection

• How has your view of how you will advocate for the needs of exceptional learners changed based on the content acquired in this course?
• In what way will you use the information in this class to build collaborative relationships that will help you throughout your future career?

Journal Options:

Suggested Journal Length:

• One to two double-spaced pages (not including title and reference pages).

Integrative and Critical Thinking Expectations (demonstrated within the content of the journal):

• Connections to Experience: Meaningfully synthesizes connections among experiences both within and outside of coursework to deepen understanding of fields of study and to broaden own points of view.
• Reflection and Self-Assessment: Envisions a future self (and possibly makes plans that build on past experiences) that have occurred across multiple and diverse contexts.

Research and Resource Expectations:

Writing and Formatting Expectations:

• Professional Reflective Voice: Journals may be written in a less formal but still professional voice (avoids casual language). Refer to the Differences Between First and Third Person (Links to an external site.) guide created by the writing center.
• Organization: Demonstrates logical progression of ideas.
• Syntax and Mechanics: Writing displays meticulous comprehension and organization of syntax and mechanics, such as spelling, grammar, and punctuation.
• APA Formatting: Papers are formatted properly, and all sources (if used) are cited and referenced in