Reflection : A means to faculty engagement in meaningful continuing professional development

Efu, Ifeatu (2021) Reflection : A means to faculty engagement in meaningful continuing professional development. PhD thesis, Lancaster University.

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Abstract

This study sought to understand reflection as a means to faculty engagement in continuing professional development (CPD) by examining faculty perceptions about reflection; reflection as a tool to facilitate responsibility and participation in professional development (PD) activities; the extent faculty members reflect on their PD needs; and how they identify PD initiatives that aim to enhance their professional growth. To examine these questions, a mixed method study was undertaken with faculty members in a Canadian higher education institution (HEI). Drawing on data from a questionnaire and semi-structured interviews, the extent to which faculty members use reflection as a tool to engage in CPD was revealed. Though faculty members believe that reflection can help inform their practice and professional growth, it is used minimally to inform CPD due to the issues of time and workload, and the types of PDA supported by the college. To promote reflection among faculty members, time for reflection and training on how to engage in critical reflection is necessary. This can only be achieved within a reflective space and environment of trust, especially between faculty members and management in HEIs. With limited research examining how faculty members can identify relevant and meaningful CPD, this study provides a basis for the use of reflection as a means for them to make deliberate and systematic attempts to reflect on their practice. Through reflection, faculty members generate information and knowledge that helps them make meaning of their actions and experiences, and from which learning through meaningful CPD can continue.