Developing Research Skills through Reflection and Experience

Researcher Development

Introduction

Welcome to my presentation on my personal development plan as a researcher.

My aim is to develop my skills as a researcher and use reflective models and frameworks to identify my development needs. I will then outline a detailed personal development plan with a considered rationale.

Some might wonder why a personal development plan is important. I will say that writing a personal development plan as a researcher is an important exercise because it helps you to clarify the steps necessary to achieve your research goals, keeps you motivated through small, achievable milestones, and sets expectations for yourself in terms of output and quality. Additionally, such a plan serves as a benchmark against which progress can be measured. Developing this document should not be seen as a one-off exercise; it should be revisited periodically to measure progress and adjust targets accordingly. Furthermore, self-reflection throughout the research process can help identify areas that need improvement, e.g., time management or communication skills. Constructing a personal development plan is thus essential for any researcher who wants to have an efficient trajectory in their academic career.

For this plan, I have identified four reflective frameworks which I will use to help me in this process:

1. Gibbs’ Reflective Cycle

2. Schön’s Framework

3. Rolfe et al’s Framework

4. Jasper’s ERA Model

Starting with Gibbs’ Reflective Cycle, I will use this model to break down each experience into its individual stages. This will allow me to identify areas which require further development and plan my development needs accordingly.

Next, I will use Schön’s Framework to focus on reflection in action. This will require a period of practice to embed this way of thinking into my daily activities, allowing me to quickly adapt to any changing situations.

Rolfe et al’s Framework will give me a clear three-stage focus, driving an action-orientated approach with the questions of ‘what?’, ‘so what’ and 'now what'.

Finally, I will use Jasper’s ERA Model to structure my development plan into three stages: experience, reflection, and action. This will give me a clear structure to follow when developing my personal development plan.

Using the above reflective models and frameworks, I will show how I identified my development needs and created a personal development plan to address them. The plan includes:

• Improving my research skills by attending workshops and webinars

• Developing my knowledge of the research process by reading books and articles

• Enhancing my data analysis skills by taking an online course

• Strengthening my communication skills by practicing public speaking

These activities will help me to develop my skills as a researcher and progress in my career.

To conclude this introduction, I have used a range of reflective models and frameworks to identify my development needs and create a personal development plan. This plan will help me to develop my skills and progress in my career as a researcher.

What is Gibbs Reflective Cycle?

The Gibbs Reflective Cycle is a model of structured reflection developed by Professor Graham Gibbs in 1988. It is a tool often used by professionals to reflect on experiences and analyze their responses to them. The cycle is composed of six stages: description, feelings, evaluation, analysis, conclusion, and action plan (Markkanen et al. 2020). This cycle encourages individuals to think deeply about an experience, consider how they were affected by it, and how they can use what they have learnt to inform future decisions (Sekarwinahyu et al. 2019). Through this approach, researchers are able to identify problematic areas that need improvement. Engaging in thoughtful analysis of successes and failures enables individuals to identify effective strategies for future endeavors (Husebo et al. 2015). Collectively, the steps help guide an effective transformation into an even better researcher.

What is Schön’s Framework?

Schön's Framework, developed by Donald Schön, is a model of reflective practice that has been widely used in the fields of education, business, and healthcare. It is based on the idea that professionals should be actively engaging in reflecting on their own practice and the contexts in which they work in order to improve their practice and better serve their clients (Pitsoe and Maila 2013). The framework consists of three main components: reflection-in-action, reflection-in-context, and reflection-on-action. Reflection-in-action is the process of reflecting on one’s practice as it is occurring in order to adjust and improve it. Reflection-in-context is the process of reflecting on one’s past experiences and current context to identify patterns and develop new perspectives. Reflection-on-action is the process of reflecting on one’s past experiences in order to develop deeper understandings and insights (Ferry and Ross-Gordon 1998).

It begins with professionals exploring their own experiences and considering how those experiences can be used to examine a situation from another perspective. Analyzing these reflections leads to a deeper understanding of the individual’s thought process, making them more conscious of their decisions and how they can lead to negative or positive outcomes (Munby and Russell 1989). Recognizing these patterns also allows for critical evaluation and contextualization, as ideas are tested against evidence gathered during the reflection cycle to generate solutions that may help influence future action. By doing this, greater awareness is developed which can then be applied when faced with similar challenges (Rashotte and Carnevale 2004). This allows for professionals to monitor their behavior, use evidence-based methods, and achieve better results.

What is Rolfe et al.’s Reflective Framework?

Rolfe et al’s Reflective Framework is a reflective model designed to help practitioners and students of health and social care to critically reflect on their practice. It encourages practitioners to reflect on their practice in terms of three questions: What? So What? and Now What? This framework helps practitioners gain insight and develop an understanding of their practice, in order to make improvements and enhance their reflective skills (Soundiraraj and Babu 2022). It is based on the three key elements of reflective practice: reflection-on-action, reflection-in-action, and reflection-for-action. The purpose of the framework is to provide a structure for reflecting on practice and learning from experiences (Heckemann et al. 2015). It is a useful tool for professionals as it helps them to identify, analyze, and learn from their experiences in order to improve practice. Ultimately, this framework strives to help professionals navigate through challenging experiences in order to gain greater clarity and understanding of both their actions as well as the outcomes of those actions (Joyce-McCoach and Smith 2016).

What is Jasper’s ERA Model?

Jasper's ERA Model is a three-stage approach to developing an effective learning experience. It consists of the stages of Experience, Reflection, and Action. During the Experience stage, the learner engages with the material, the Reflection stage involves analyzing and reflecting on the experience, and the Action stage involves taking what was learned and applying it to real-world situations (Ryder and Downs 2022). This model helps to create an effective learning experience by encouraging the learner to think through their experience and apply what they have learned (Jasper 2003).

The idea behind the model is that in order for individuals or organizations to increase their capacity for successful intervention and/or change, it is important to create space for purposeful reflection on previous experiences as a part of their development process (Jasper 1999). This includes identifying successes, areas of challenge, and concrete steps needed to move forward. As such, the model sees experience, reflection and action as interconnected processes, whereby reflecting meaningfully upon current practice enables individuals or organizations to responsibly take informed risks by pursuing new courses of action while using existing resources more effectively. Ultimately, this cycle creates learning opportunities that enable innovation in problem solving initiatives (Ryder and Downs 2022). It applies to research in the same way as it does for an organization: becoming a better researcher is about understanding one’s experiences with research, reflecting on them—including the successes and failures—and taking action to overcome challenges and improve.

How I Identified My Development Needs

I have used all of these frameworks to identify my development needs as a researcher. Starting with Gibbs’ Reflective Cycle, I have used it to reflect on my research experiences and identify areas for improvement. For example, I identified that I needed to work on my data analysis skills, so I made a plan to attend some additional training. With Schön’s framework, I have used it to reflect on my research processes and identify how I can improve them. For example, I identified that I needed to be more organised and make notes at each step of the research process to ensure I don’t miss any key details. With Rolfe et al’s framework, I have used it to focus on the future implications of my research and identify what actions I need to take to achieve my goals. With Jasper’s ERA model, I have used it to analyze my research experiences and identify how I can apply my learning in the future. For example, I identified that I need to be more rigorous in my research and use a more structured approach when designing my experiments.

Gibbs’ Reflective Cycle

Gibbs’ model has six stages and allows for separation of aspects of an experience. 1. Description: I have written down what happened in a clear and concise manner. 2. Feelings: I have reflected on my emotions during the experience and how they may have affected my research. 3. Evaluation: I have identified the positives and negatives of the experience, such as how successful the data analysis was and what I could have done differently. 4. Analysis: I have considered the underlying cause of any issues that arose, such as lack of understanding of the data analysis process. 5. Conclusions: I have identified potential solutions to the problems that were experienced, such as attending additional training. 6. Action Plan: I have planned out the steps I will take to address the identified development needs, such as attending additional training.

Schön’s Framework

Schön’s framework also guided me to consider how I could use my own experiences and learning to inform my research. I reflected on the lessons I had learned on previous projects and identified where I could apply them in my current research. Finally, I used Schön’s framework to think about how I could use feedback from colleagues and other experts in the field to inform my research. I identified areas where I could ask for more input and advice, in order to make sure I was making the most of their experience and knowledge. I also identified that I need to develop my problem-solving skills in order to be able to think through and find solutions to the difficult questions that I may face during my research. To develop these skills, I have practiced problem-solving scenarios and discussed them with my colleagues to gain more insight and understanding. I have also made use of online resources such as tutorials, books and websites to increase my knowledge of research methodologies. This has helped me to develop my skills in a more structured way. Additionally, I have taken part in workshops and seminars to gain further insight into the research process and increase my confidence in my abilities.

Rolfe et al.’s Framework

Stage 1: What? I have asked myself ‘What specifically happened?’ and ‘What were the key aspects of my research?’ This has enabled me to identify what worked well and what didn’t, and to gain an understanding of the context and my own role in the research.

Stage 2: So what? I have asked myself ‘What are the implications of my research?’ and ‘What have I learnt?’ This has helped me to take a step back and to consider the wider implications of my research, as well as to develop my understanding of my own research process.

Stage 3: Now what? I have asked myself ‘What do I need to do now to develop my research?’ and ‘What can I do differently?’ This has enabled me to identify areas for improvement and to plan how to develop my research skills and strategies.

Overall, this reflective framework provided me with a structured approach to identifying my own development needs as a researcher and has helped me to plan how to move forward in my research journey.

Jasper’s ERA Model

Using this model, I focused on experience, reflection, and action.

Experience: I reflected on experiences I have had in the past when carrying out my research.

Reflection: I considered the successes and failures of my research and used this to identify areas that I need to improve. I evaluated the areas I need to improve and identified the specific changes I need to make in order to become a better researcher.

Action: I created a plan of action to put into place in order to address the development needs I have identified. This includes forming a plan to become more rigorous, using a more structured approach, and improving my communication skills.

From this process, I realized I need to focus on developing better analytical skills to interpret the data gathered and recognize patterns. I need to be better at presenting my research findings in an effective and convincing way. I need to become more knowledgeable in relevant research methodologies and techniques. I need to be more proactive in seeking out and engaging with other researchers and professionals in the field. I need to pay more attention to the ethical considerations when conducting my research. I also need to work on my communication and networking skills to be able to better collaborate with peers and colleagues (Ferreira and Du Plessis 2009).

Using this framework helped me to identify specific areas of development and define ways to improve my research skills. I have been able to take a more systematic approach to developing my research competencies, setting specific goals and strategies for each area of improvement. Through this process I have also been able to identify additional resources and support networks to facilitate my learning.

Detailed Personal Development Plan

As a researcher, I am aware of the need to continually develop and improve my practice (Somekh 1995). My personal development plan is based on utilizing the various reflective models, namely those proposed by Gibbs, Schon, Rolfe et al., and Jasper. This would involve researching each model in detail and developing an understanding of how they are used to reflect on practice and identify areas for improvement. In addition to this theoretical work, I also intend to make a conscious effort to consider how the key elements of each model can be applied in my everyday practice. I want to use reflective diary entries to document my progress in this area and track any changes in my practice. I am confident that by actively reflecting on my practice, I will be able to identify meaningful ways to keep improving as a researcher.

Steps

1. Identify researcher development needs: I will identify my researcher development needs through self-assessment and reflection using the models mentioned above. This will help me to understand what I need to work on and what skills or knowledge I need to acquire to be an effective researcher.

2. Develop objectives: I will develop objectives around my identified researcher development needs, such as developing my communication and writing skills and understanding the research process.

3. Research: I will research the available resources and opportunities that can help me to achieve my objectives. This includes identifying training and development programmes, reading relevant books and journals, attending relevant conferences and networking with other researchers.

4. Create an action plan: I will create a detailed action plan outlining the steps I need to take to achieve my objectives. This will include activities such as attending online courses, scheduling time for reading, and attending conferences.

5. Monitor progress: I will monitor my progress and keep track of my progress towards achieving my objectives. This will include setting milestones, tracking my progress and assessing my performance.

Rationale

My proposed development plan is based on the four reflective frameworks mentioned above as they provide a comprehensive approach to understanding and addressing my researcher development needs. The plan will help me to identify my development needs, develop objectives, research resources and opportunities, create an action plan, and monitor my progress. This is important as it will help me to stay on track and ensure that I am making progress towards achieving my objectives. Additionally, this plan will allow me to gain a better understanding of the research process and develop the skills and knowledge I need to be an effective researcher.

Using Gibbs’ Model

1. Description: Here, I will describe my current skills and abilities as a researcher and identify any gaps in my knowledge and experience.

2. Feelings: Here, I will reflect on my feelings about my current research capabilities and identify any areas that I might need to work on.

3. Evaluation: Here, I will evaluate my research skills and abilities, and assess any areas where I might need to improve.

4. Analysis: Here, I will analyze my research skills and abilities in comparison to my research goals and objectives.

5. Conclusion: Here, I will draw conclusions from my analysis and identify areas of improvement.

6. Action Plan: Here, I will create an action plan to address my identified areas of improvement.

The action plan I have created to become a better researcher includes the following items:

• Developing my research skills and abilities through reading research literature, attending conferences and workshops, and engaging in online learning (Cottrell 2019).

• Developing my writing skills by completing writing tasks and engaging in peer review.

• Developing my presentation skills by attending seminars and workshops as well as practicing my presentation skills.

• Developing my data analysis skills by using software such as SPSS, STATA, and R (Muenchen 2012)

• Developing my research design skills by formulating research questions, designing experiments, and collecting data.

• Developing my critical thinking skills by engaging in debates, discussions, and analytical activities.

• Developing my problem solving skills by engaging in practical exercises and engaging in research projects.

• Developing my communication skills by attending conferences, seminars, and workshops and engaging in discussions with colleagues (Cranton 1994).

• Developing my time management skills by setting realistic goals and creating a schedule to meet those goals.

• Developing my self-discipline skills by setting realistic goals and creating a plan to reach those goals.

• Developing my networking skills by attending conferences, seminars, and workshops and engaging in conversations with peers (Ferman 2002).

• Developing my leadership skills by taking on leadership roles within research projects and engaging in team-building activities.

• Developing my research ethics skills by studying and understanding relevant ethical principles and guidelines.

• Developing my project management skills by developing project plans, setting timelines and milestones, and managing resources.

By following the above action plan, I will be able to become a better researcher and achieve my research goals and objectives.

Using Schon’s Framework

1. Identification of needs: My need as a researcher is to improve my research skills and knowledge. This includes a need to become more confident in conducting research, understanding research methods, and creating effective research strategies (Becker et al. 2012).

2. Action: I will address these needs by committing to attending both online and in-person courses in research methods and strategies. I will also commit to reading widely and regularly on research topics, and to researching and discussing research topics with my peers and colleagues.

3. Reflection: I will reflect on my progress in my research development by setting goals and tracking my progress. I will track my progress by keeping a journal and creating checklists. I will also reflect on my progress by discussing my progress and experiences with my peers and colleagues.

4. Reflection in Action: I will use my reflections to adjust my research approaches and strategies. I will adjust my research strategies based on my observations and reflections, and I will use Schön’s reflective framework to help me identify areas for improvement.

5. Evaluation: I will evaluate my progress by setting goals and tracking my progress. I will also seek feedback from my peers and colleagues. I will use this feedback to adjust my research strategies and approaches.

The personal development plan outlined above will help me become a better researcher. By committing to learning and reflecting on my progress, I will be able to develop the necessary skills and knowledge to become a successful researcher (Wisker 2017). Furthermore, by seeking feedback and adjusting my approaches and strategies, I will ensure that I am able to continually develop my research skills and knowledge (Elliott and Dweck 1988).

Using Rolfe et al.’s Framework

What?

I want to become a better researcher, so my first step is to identify my current skills, strengths and weaknesses. I need to assess my knowledge and skills to determine what areas I need to develop. I can do this by conducting a self-assessment, seeking feedback from my peers, and talking to a mentor or supervisor who has more experience than me (Vidmar 2005).

So What?

Now that I have identified my skills and weaknesses, I need to evaluate how they contribute to my research. I need to consider how my skills and knowledge can be used to make the most of my research opportunities. I can do this by reviewing my goals, analyzing my research skills and knowledge, and understanding how my skills can be used to make a positive impact on my research (Mowbray and Halse 2010).

Now What?

Now that I have identified and evaluated my skills and weaknesses, I need to create a plan of action to address them. This plan should include activities such as research training courses, workshops, seminars, reading, and other activities that will help me to develop my research skills. I should also be prepared to take risks and try new approaches in order to expand my knowledge (Sahlberg 2006).

The development plan I have proposed using this framework is designed to help me become a better researcher. By conducting a thorough assessment of my current skills and knowledge, I can identify areas that need improvement, and then create a plan of action to address them. This plan will help me to build my research skills and knowledge, and increase my confidence in my research. It will also help me to stay focused and motivated, and to identify and take advantage of opportunities to further my research (Burton 2012).