H. Platzer et al., Barriers to learning from reflection: a study of the use of groupwork withpost-registration nurses, J ADV NURS, 31(5), 2000, pp. 1001-1008
There are few studies which describe the use of groups to facilitate reflec
tion and even fewer which evaluate the effectiveness of such groups. Much o
f the literature discussing the techniques used to facilitate reflection su
ggests that learners willingly engage in such processes and find them enjoy
able. This paper reports on a qualitative study of the use of groups to dev
elop learning through reflection on a part-time post-registration diploma p
rogramme for nurses. The findings suggest that there are many barriers to l
earning which must be overcome before practitioners can use the opportuniti
es to reflect on and learn from their experience. It is also contended that
such learning may not necessarily be an enjoyable experience. The findings
suggest that previous educational experience and the current culture in wh
ich nurses and midwives work, impose tremendous barriers to reflecting on,
and learning from, experience. In particular these affect the willingness o
f learners to expose themselves to the judgement of others and their abilit
y to be open to taking responsibility for their own learning. Other barrier
s to learning in groups are the effects of other group members, their commi
tment or resistance to shared learning, the ways in which group members int
eract with each other and facilitation styles.