Page 24 - SBA Handbook 2020 - FINAL

Learning Journals

Learning Journals/Reflective Journals

A learning journal is a collection of thoughts, observations, notes and other materials over
time. These are related to a specific area of study and have selected learning outcomes.
Learning journals support student learning as they engage in the process of writing and
thinking about their learning experiences.

The use of learning journals as an assessment tool promotes reflection on the learning
process. Through journal writing, students are provided with opportunities to reflect on
their learning styles, preferences and experiences and use these as a way to improve their
learning. Learning journals are excellent tools for continuous assessment.

Advantages of Learning Journals

1. Facilitate self-monitoring and self-assessment.

2. Support reviewing and re-reading of written pieces and reflection on experiences.

3. Encourage active engagement in their own learning.

4. Facilitate self-directed learning.

5. Promote critical reflection.

6. Encourage awareness of how they learn.

The role of the Teacher

The teacher should:

1. clarify the role and purpose of the learning journals;

2. work with students to identify learning events/products that can be recorded in their

journal;

3. develop guidelines for creating their learning journals; and,

4. work with students to identify the different features of their learning journals.

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