Textbook: At Risk Youth (6th Edition)

Reflective Journal Entries

There are 4 steps to writing your Reflective Journal entries:

Why we write reflective journals

To make a conscious effort to acknowledge our learning experiences

To read about aspects of youth issues which are relevant to our role as a human service worker

To challenge our assumptions and how they might affect our future practices required for the social services worker field

Method of writing reflective journals

Use handwritten (legible) or typed entries. It is important for students to acquaint themselves with typed entries as today’s workforce relies heavily on computer skills. The purpose of this step is for students to be able to process and express their subconscious experiences and application of course material

Use colour, sketching, textiles, other products from nature, as a way to enhance your journal entries as you feel compelled to do so

Use your creative mind. This could be exhibited by journal entries which are expressed by rhyme, poetry or narrative in order to link course material to your learning experiences.

Include articles of interest, research notes, personal comments, quotes, or photos. You must provide proper citation for any materials which are not your own

Composition of journal entries

Journal entries should include the following:

Name ( please use this name-> Enana Mebrat )

Date

Topic (relative to each session or lectures (9))

The following questions should be used as guidance to structure journal entries:

How can I use my journal to challenge my thinking and learning in regards to social service work?

What have I gained or learned from today’s session?

Have there been any changes to my thought processes regarding topics covered in today’s session?

How can this course help me reach my own goals as a person or professional?

What specific goals for learning and personal growth have I set for me as I work through this course?

What feeling about me seemed particularly strong as I worked on today’ session? Explain.

What insights have I gained into people as a result of the session material overed today as well as my own personal experiences? Explain.

The Reflective Journal is an assignment for you to write about your reflections on what you have learned and experienced each day. The combination of course readings, lecture and classroom activities has enabled you to attain knowledge and experiences in order to reflect and write about these aspects. The journal is your method to express yourself. Your instructor is looking for you to express your own thoughts, beliefs and feelings as a way to synthesize your knowledge, skills and experiences. It is important for you to relate course material with your experiences as a way for you to find meaning, make connections and develop critical thinking skills necessary for working within the social service field. Each journal entry is part of your Youth Issues evaluation and grade and is therefore required for each day

Assessment

2