Why are debrief and reflection with our campers so important?
The following is from the .pdf "Reflection-with-Youth-UWExtension"
INTRODUCTION
Why is Reflection So Important? Reflection is a key component to effective youth and adult service-learning projects, but it also has important implications for use in other service projects and youth and adult activities. Structured reflection helps participants…
• Consider what they accomplished and learned during an activity.
• Contemplate ways that the experience could be adjusted to improve the outcome.
• Formulate concrete ideas of how they can use their experience in other facets of their lives.
• Share their ideas and feelings with others.
• Communicate the value of their participation with themselves and other participants.
Reflection is also a key component in the Experiential Learning Cycle (or “Learning by Doing” model). This learning model is a researched-based, effective method of structuring positive youth development activities. The Experiential Learning Cycle can be described using the following model.
In this model, a participant completes an activity and then reflects on his participation. The reflection helps him formulate how the experience relates to other aspects of his life. He uses this new knowledge by applying it to his life and making appropriate changes in future activities. Once other activities begin, the cycle repeats itself again…and again…and again.
As you can see in this model, reflection is a key component in experiential learning. Not only is it an integral part of debriefing a service project, it can also be an equally powerful tool when incorporated into other activities. For example, reflection activities can increase the educational outcomes for participants when used with the following 4-H activities:
• With camp counselors midway through 4-H camp.
• After a club performance at a theatre arts competition.
• As part of a year-end club banquet to help members reflect about the past 4-H year.
• With a project group after the county fair.
• After a club trip or recreational activity.
• At the completion of a club fundraising activity.
• After the first dress rehearsal of a club performance.
The possibilities for incorporating reflection activities into youth and adult activities are endless. The best part is that the reflection activities presented in this guide are quick, hands-on, and fun for the participants and leaders!
Experiential Learning Model, Pfeiffer, J.W., & Jones, J.E., “Reference Guide to Handbooks and Annuals” © 1983 John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
As you can see in this model, reflection is a key component in experiential learning. Not only is it an integral part of debriefing a service project, it can also be an equally powerful tool when incorporated into other activities. For example, reflection activities can increase the educational outcomes for participants when used with the following 4-H activities:
• With camp counselors midway through 4-H camp.
• After a club performance at a theatre arts competition.
• As part of a year-end club banquet to help members reflect about the past 4-H year.
• With a project group after the county fair.
• After a club trip or recreational activity.
• At the completion of a club fundraising activity.
• After the first dress rehearsal of a club performance.
The possibilities for incorporating reflection activities into youth and adult activities are endless. The best part is that the reflection activities presented in this guide are quick, hands-on, and fun for the participants and leaders!
Experiential Learning Model, Pfeiffer, J.W., & Jones, J.E., “Reference Guide to Handbooks and Annuals” © 1983 John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
Debrief and Reflection Activities
External Websites
The Value of Reflection - The Inspired Educator Blog, by Jen Stanchfield/Experiential Tools
Reflection Activity Ideas (4-H) - These activities are structured around reflection following a service project, but can easily be modified for reflection in our day camp setting
Reflection Activity Ideas (4-H) - These activities are structured around reflection following a service project, but can easily be modified for reflection in our day camp setting