Critical Reflection In Early Childhood Education

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The Early Years Learning Framework (EYLF) identifies “ongoing learning and reflective practice” as one of the key principles (Department of Education, Employment and Workplace Relations [DEEWR], 2009, p. 13). Critical reflection is an on going thinking process where teachers reflect on their own practice, their skills and the impact it has made. According to Miller (2011), critical reflection lets the educator think about the event, issue or practice from different viewpoints. Early childhood educators very closely examine what is happening in their surrounding and review the outcomes of their practice. It is not about finding faults or criticising the events but it is a process that provides an opportunity to the educator to become self-aware. It refers to reflecting on everyday practices to be more effective (Johns, 2009). …show more content…
Higher quality learning environment results in better outcomes. The educator’s on going critical reflection make them aware of their pedagogy, which helps them to develop their knowledge and provide learning opportunities for children. When educators reflect on their practice they can consider developing opportunities for children to express themselves and support their sense of agency. Reflection provides new insights to the educator and to view ways of doing things from a different perspective (Kennedy & Stonehouse, (2012). A critical reflector is able to reach new understanding and also have a closer look at the relationship between theory and practice. Through the journey of critical reflection, the beliefs, values, theories the educator holds can be transformed. It is like educators coming to a realisation and finding out number of possibilities to make a difference and achieve high-quality learning (Anderson,