Donald Schön

Definition

Donald Schön was an influential educational theorist and philosopher known for his work on reflective practice and learning. His ideas focus on the importance of reflection in action and on how professionals can improve their practice through thoughtful consideration of their experiences. Schön's concepts help bridge the gap between theory and practice, emphasizing that learning is an ongoing process that happens both during and after action.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Schön introduced the concept of 'reflection-in-action,' which refers to the ability to reflect on one's actions while engaged in the process of doing.
2. He contrasted reflection-in-action with 'reflection-on-action,' which involves analyzing an event after it has occurred to learn from it.
3. Schön believed that effective professionals must be adaptable, using reflective practice to navigate complex and unpredictable situations.
4. His work emphasized the significance of tacit knowledge, or the unspoken understanding gained through experience, in professional practice.
5. Schön's theories have been influential in fields such as education, management, and health care, promoting a more thoughtful and responsive approach to professional development.

Review Questions

• How does Donald Schön's concept of reflection-in-action differ from reflection-on-action, and why is each important for professional growth?
  • Reflection-in-action occurs during the activity itself, allowing professionals to make adjustments in real-time based on their observations. This immediate reflection helps practitioners respond effectively to unexpected challenges. On the other hand, reflection-on-action takes place after the experience, enabling individuals to analyze what happened and why. Both types of reflection are vital for professional growth because they foster deeper understanding and continuous improvement in practice.
• Discuss how Schön's ideas about reflective practice can enhance action research initiatives within educational settings.
  • Schön's ideas about reflective practice provide a framework for educators engaged in action research by emphasizing the role of critical self-reflection in evaluating their teaching methods. This reflective approach enables educators to systematically assess their practices, identify areas for improvement, and adapt strategies based on direct experiences. By incorporating reflective practice into action research, educators can create a cycle of continuous improvement that ultimately enhances student learning outcomes.
• Evaluate the impact of Donald Schön's theories on contemporary educational practices, particularly in fostering a culture of reflection among educators.
  • Donald Schön's theories have significantly impacted contemporary educational practices by promoting a culture of reflection that encourages educators to engage in ongoing self-assessment and professional development. His emphasis on reflection has led to the adoption of collaborative practices such as peer coaching and reflective journaling among educators. By embedding reflection into daily routines, Schön's influence has contributed to improved teaching effectiveness, increased teacher collaboration, and a greater focus on student-centered learning environments.

Related terms

Reflective Practice: A method of self-examination where individuals critically consider their actions and experiences to improve future performance.

Action Research: A participatory research approach that allows practitioners to investigate their own practices systematically in order to improve them.

Learning Organization: An organization that actively promotes a culture of continuous learning, encouraging all members to develop their skills and knowledge.