4.8. Evaluating and reflecting on performance (Critical Thinking)
Learning Objectives
By the end of this lesson, students will be able to:
- Analyze feedback to develop actionable steps for improvement.
- Create a personal action plan to implement specific strategies for growth.
- Apply reflection and feedback to improve communication and patient care.
- Explain the importance of self-reflection in personal and professional growth.
- Identify strengths and areas for improvement in patient interaction.
- Interpret and apply feedback to improve communication and procedural skills.
- Create a personal action plan with specific, actionable steps for improvement.
Part 1: Warm-Up
Discussion on Reflection and Feedback
Think about the following questions and discuss them in pairs or small groups:
- Why is reflection important in healthcare?
- Can you think of a time when you received feedback? What was it?
- How did the feedback help you improve?
- What are some ways you can reflect on your interactions with patients?
Part 2: Reflecting on Patient Interactions
Reflection on Patient Interaction
Think about a recent role-play activity where you interacted with a patient. Use the prompts below to reflect on your performance.
Describe the interaction:
- What was the scenario?
- What role did you play, and what was your objective?
- What went well during the interaction?
- What challenges did you face?
- How did the patient (or role-play partner) respond to your communication?
- What would you do differently next time?
Pair Discussion: After completing the worksheet, pair up and share your reflections with a partner. Discuss:
- What areas for improvement did you identify?
- What insights did you gain from the reflection process?
Part 3: Using Feedback for Improvement
Analyzing Feedback
Read the sample feedback form below:
Sample Feedback Form:
Strengths:
- You maintained good eye contact with the patient.
- Your tone was calm and professional, which put the patient at ease.
Areas for Improvement:
- Clarify medical instructions more thoroughly.
- Avoid using too much medical jargon; simplify your explanations.
- Practice active listening by paraphrasing the patient’s concerns.
Answer the following questions:
- What feedback stood out to you and why?
- How can you apply this feedback to improve your patient interactions?
- What specific changes will you make based on this feedback?
Group Discussion:
- In small groups, create a list of actionable steps your group can take to implement feedback in practice.
- Use the table below to organize your thoughts:
| Feedback | Actionable Step |
|---|---|
| Clarify medical instructions | Practice explaining instructions in simple language |
| Avoid medical jargon | Use analogies or simpler terms to explain concepts |
| Practice active listening | Repeat or paraphrase the patient’s concerns |
Part 4: Creating a Personal Action Plan
Personal Action Plan
Based on your reflections and group discussions, fill out the action plan template below.
Specific Goals for Improvement:
- Goal 1: ____________________________________________
- Goal 2: ____________________________________________
Strategies to Achieve These Goals:
- Strategy 1: ____________________________________________
- Strategy 2: ____________________________________________
Timeline for Implementation:
- When will you start working on these goals?
Your Answer: ____________________________________________ - How will you track your progress?
Your Answer: ____________________________________________ - How I Will Hold Myself Accountable:
Your Answer: ____________________________________________
Pair or Group Sharing:
- Share your action plan with a partner or in small groups.
- Provide constructive feedback to each other:
- What do you think works well in your partner’s plan?
- Are there any additional steps or strategies you can recommend?
Part 5: Wrap-Up and Reflection
Reflection Questions
Reflect on what you learned in today’s lesson.
- What is one insight you gained about the importance of reflection in healthcare?
Your Answer: ____________________________________________ - What strategy will you use to improve your practice? Why did you choose this strategy?
Your Answer: ____________________________________________ - How will self-reflection and feedback help you provide better patient care?
Your Answer: ____________________________________________
