1. Value of Reflective Essay …critical to the success of portfolios –Roberta Camp and Denise Levine “…the most important aspect of the portfolio process” – Kerry Weinbaum “…one of the most important and useful documents in the portfolio” -- Peter Elbow

2. Value of the Reflective Essay Why do these distinguished compositionists think the reflective essay is so important?

3. Value of the Reflective Essay The reflective paper leads to community college learners taking responsibility for their own learning.

4. Value of Reflective Essay Two-way conversation Students become active participants in the academic discourse community.

5. Value of the Reflective Essay Students begin to think of themselves as writers rather than hoop-jumpers or homework factories.

6. Value of the Reflective Essay Pride in achievement Reflection gives opportunity to assess growth, to note strengths developed. Reflection generates forward momentum to continue work at higher level.

7. Possible Objections Imposed confession/power dynamic Time away from other class activities Not a model for business or professional writing

8. Value of Reflective Essay A final plus – Evidence of learning in this time of increased emphasis on demonstrable outcomes