A Study on the Use of Reflective Journals in Problem Based Learning

Chae, Su Jin; Shin, Jwa Seop; Eun, Hee Chul; Lee, Yoon Sung

Abstract

PURPOSE: The purpose of this study was to analyze the opinions of students and tutors about the use of reflective journals in Problem Based Learning performed in Seoul National University College of Medicine over a period of 4 weeks, and to determine the possible applications of such journals as an evaluation tool.
METHODS
& RESULTS: The writing of a reflective journal helps students to achieve some of the important PBL goals, for example, keeping such a journal encourages students to reflect on their learning experiences, and fosters problem solving skills. All students were asked to complete the same questionnaire every weeks for the four week period. Most students thought of a reflective journal as a tool for personal reflection, rather than as a tool for fostering problem solving skills. The questionnaire was rated on 5 point scale: from 'very important' to 'not important at all'. Fifty eight percent of tutors and 20% of students replied that the journal writing was 'very important'.
CONCLUSION
We suggest the following items for the future application of the reflective journal as an evaluation tool. First, intimate trust should be developed between students and tutors, as a reflective journal can include private matters. Second, tutors should give feedback for the student's reflective journal. Finally, comprehensive direction should be given to students and tutors to allow them to use their reflective journals effectively.