PGCE Reflective Practice and CPD

Question 1

Who developed the influential model of the 'reflective practitioner'?

Accepted Answer

Donald Schön

Answer

John Dewey

Answer

David Kolb

Answer

Jerome Bruner

Question 2

What is the difference between 'reflection-in-action' and 'reflection-on-action' (Schön)?

Accepted Answer

Reflection-in-action occurs during the event, adjusting in real time; reflection-on-action occurs afterwards, reviewing what happened

Answer

They are the same process occurring at different times of day

Answer

Reflection-in-action is for experienced teachers only

Answer

Reflection-on-action is only for written journals

Question 3

What is Kolb's Experiential Learning Cycle and how does it apply to PGCE training?

Accepted Answer

A four-stage cycle: concrete experience → reflective observation → abstract conceptualisation → active experimentation — applicable to learning from classroom experience

Answer

A three-stage model of lesson planning

Answer

A framework for curriculum design only

Answer

A theory exclusively about outdoor learning

Question 4

What is 'critical reflection' and how does it differ from description?

Accepted Answer

Critical reflection analyses why things happened and considers alternative approaches; description only recounts what happened

Answer

They are the same process at different career stages

Answer

Critical reflection is only required for Masters-level PGCE

Answer

Description is more useful than critical reflection for trainees

Question 5

What is 'evidence-informed practice' in the context of PGCE and CPD?

Accepted Answer

Using research evidence alongside professional experience to inform and improve teaching decisions

Answer

Relying solely on personal experience without reference to research

Answer

Following instructions from senior staff without reflection

Answer

Applying every research finding rigidly without contextual judgement

Question 6

What is the purpose of a 'mentor observation' during PGCE training?

Accepted Answer

To provide structured, developmental feedback that supports the trainee's progress against the Teachers' Standards

Answer

To assess the trainee for a final grade only

Answer

To check compliance with school policies

Answer

To replace the trainee teacher with the mentor