Practical tips for writing an effective reflection report

When do you write a reflection report?

You may need to write a reflection report at various points during your studies, depending on the specific requirements of your course and the objectives of the assignment or project. Here are some situations in which you may be required to write a reflection paper during your studies:

During your studies, it may be mandatory to complete an internship and/or acquire relevant work experience. You are often expected to write reflection reports to demonstrate what you have learned and how you have applied those experiences to your studies.

You can also write reflection reports that focus on your personal development as a student, which may include your academic goals, study skills, and how you have worked to improve your skills and identify areas for growth. These reflection reports are often an integral part of your thesis process or portfolio.

What structure does a reflection report follow?

Your reflection report usually includes the following elements:

• Introduction: Begin your reflection report with an introduction that provides the context of the activity you are reflecting on. Describe the goal of the activity, the tasks you completed, and what you learned from the experience.
• Experiences: Provide a detailed description of the activity, including the main tasks, objectives, and expectations. Explain how you carried out the activity and highlight any professional knowledge, skills, or personal growth you gained. Share specific insights and learning moments that stood out to you. Reflect on your personal involvement, including your role, responsibilities, decisions, and challenges encountered.
• Reflection: Analyze your experiences and share your personal thoughts, feelings, and insights. Take a critical look at your actions and decisions during the activity. Consider if there were alternative approaches you could have taken and the reasons behind your choices. Describe the consequences of your actions and what you learned from them. Discuss any additional challenges you faced.
• Conclusion: Draw conclusions based on your reflections and highlight the key learning points from the activity. Summarize the main insights and lessons you gained.
• Future steps: Discuss the steps you plan to take based on your reflections. Outline how you intend to further develop yourself based on what you have learned.
• Sources (optional): If you referenced specific literature or sources, provide a bibliography listing them.

Tip: It is important to be honest and sincere in your reflection report. Reflect not only on successes but also on challenges.