Reflective Journal Essay
You need to keep a reflective journal, which you will later use to inform a written assignment. You
may be asked to include comment on lectures, performances and the pre-reading and classroom
experience. You are required to submit TWO (2) learning journals on the following chapters:
1. Chapters 1, 2:
- Human resource management in Australia
- Strategic human resource management
- The Legal context for human resource management
2. Chapters 8, 9:
- Recruitment and selection
- Managing diversity and work-life balance
The content of the reflection is up to you, although it should be based on the ideas and discussions from class and the relevant assigned readings. As well, a number of activities and reflection questions will be suggested in each class. Reflective Journal entries must demonstrate application of course materials to personal experience and observations and include an evaluation of those experiences and also lessons learned.
KEY ELEMENTS OF REFLECTION
This assessment is a type of thinking associated with deep thought, aimed at achieving better understanding. Effective leaders consciously develop their ability to reflect on their experiences and expand their worldview. They are able to critically observe their own behaviour and consider new/alternative ideas for potential learning. They learn to learn. It contains a mixture of elements:
1.Making sense of experience
We don’t always learn from experiences. Reflection is where we analyse experience, actively attempting to ‘make sense’ or find the meaning in it.
2.‘Standing back’
It can be hard to reflect when we are caught up in an activity. ‘Standing back’ gives a better view or perspective on an experience, issue or action.
3.Repetition
Reflection involves ‘going over’ something, often several times, in order to get a broad view and check nothing is missed
4.Deeper honesty
Reflection is associated with ‘striving after truth’. Through reflection, we can acknowledge things that we find difficult to admit in the normal course of events.
5.‘Weighing up’
Reflection involves being even-handed, or balanced in judgement. This means taking everything into account, not just the most obvious.
6.Clarity
Reflection can bring greater clarity, like seeing events reflected in a mirror. This can help at any stage of planning, carrying out and reviewing activities.
7.Understanding
Reflection is about learning and understanding on a deeper level. This includes gaining valuable insights that cannot be just ‘taught’.
8.Making judgements
Reflection involves an element of drawing conclusions in order to move on, change or develop an approach, strategy or activity.