Reflection and Reflective Questions

Making Access Happen
MAH Coaching Support
3 min readAug 19, 2016

Drs. Rush and Shelden review the purpose of reflection, how to use reflection, and the benefits of a coaching relationship.

Drs. Rush and Shelden give an in-depth overview of reflection and the use of reflective questions. They explain the purpose of reflection, how to use reflection, and the benefits to both participants in a coaching relationship. Provided after the video is a detailed outline of the content of the video, suggestions for use, and additional resources. Follow the link to review.

REFLECTION AND REFLECTIVE QUESTIONS

Topics of discussion in the video

The aspects of the adult learning strategies used in coaching:

· Comparison of other interaction styles

· Engaging the other person in a problem-solving process

· Demonstrating respect of the other person

· Capacity building

In addition, they review the different types of Reflective Questions: Awareness (creating a shared awareness), Analysis (Thinking about the why), Alternatives (Additional ideas and solutions), and Action (Planning for what is going to happen next).

They address common concerns with the use of Reflective Questions:

· Are the questions going to be perceived as intrusive? Are we being pushy?

· What if someone just wants to be told what to do?

· It takes too much time

· Avoiding Yes/No questions — “Coaching, not coaxing”

Suggestions and Reflections on the Use of this Video

This video could be used as an introduction to Reflective Coaching and the use of Reflective Questions, with opportunities to explore the different types of questions, common concerns, and tips for using the questions. It can be used for trainings, individual learning or peer discussions. It can also be used as a review and enhancing of learning about coaching. We’ve included some additional resources to supplement the video.

If you’re a trainer, how is this consistent with your experiences using reflective coaching? What information would be the most helpful to you in your trainings? What ideas do you have to use this to support your training of other coaches? What do you plan to do?

If you’re a coach (an adult supporting other adults in the lives with children with disabilities), how does this fit in with what you already know about reflective coaching? How could reflective questions be helpful in your work? What steps would you take to use reflective questions in your work?

If you’re working with a coach (family member, child care provider, teacher, colleague, new coach, etc.), what do you think about reflection and reflective strategies? How could reflection work for you? What questions will you have for a coach?

Others — What do you already know about coaching and reflective questions? How does this apply to your current experiences and situations? What will you take away from this information and how will you use it in your work?

Resources

Reflective Questions Framework

http://fipp.org/static/media/uploads/casetools/casetool_vol4_no1.pdf

Tips and Techniques

http://fipp.org/static/media/uploads/briefcase/briefcase_vol1_no2.pdf

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