Critical Reflection and Autonomous Learning

Critical Reflection and Autonomous Learning


Autonomous learning involves the ability to regulate one’s actions through critical reflection on one’s motives.

(Benson and Voller, 1997: 385)

As this quote suggests, autonomy is possible when critical reflection plays a leading role in our motivation to learn. The purpose of this assignment is to discuss the areas of critical reflection and autonomous learning within the field of education. In doing so the importance of these areas in education will be discussed as well as how these areas might be applied in meeting the Basic Principles of teaching Legal Studies. Finally, the integration and application of these principles in actual teaching practice will also be a focus of discussion.


Critical Reflection


Critical reflection is a process of ‘conscious monitoring and evaluating of what we know and the strategies we use to think and to know’ (Silvers, 2001). It is ‘not concerned with the how or t...