Learning through reflection

Reflection is a process of learning through everyday experiences and forms an integral part of undergraduate and post-graduate higher education midwifery programmes. Students are encouraged to use a structured model of reflection to demonstrate their ability to reflect on their experiences during clinical practice. These models of reflection will be discussed, and the use of reflective practice within midwifery higher education will be evaluated. The article will also consider the importance of reflection as part of continued professional development and revalidation, and the role it has to enable midwives to become reflective practitioners and ultimately increase self-awareness, self-identity and personal growth.