Have you ever heard about Driscoll’s reflective model of reflection? If your answer is No. Don’t fret. In this blog post, we will provide a practical explanation of the John Driscoll Model of Reflection. Not only that, but the blog also highlights the steps, practices, and consequences of a reflective work method. Moreover, we will talk about the skills needed, attributes, and tips. Therefore, we believe that after you have read this blog, you’ll understand the basics of this personal development and reflection tool. 

This model is a framework for carrying out reflective or retrospective analysis. This practical model was developed by John Driscoll in 1994, as mentioned before. The model is based on three questions: What? So what? Now what? These questions were initially proposed by Terry Borton in 19701.

Moreover, the model was revised in 2004 and 2007 to connect these three stem questions to the stages of an experiential learning cycle. On the other hand, you should also give trigger questions to complete the reflection cycle. It is one of the simplest reflective frameworks for writing. Before we dive into details, let’s first discuss what reflective models are. So, stay tuned and enjoy reading.

What Are Reflective Models?

Both health and social care programs commonly use reflections, also known as practice reviews. It refers to how students reflect on their past experiences in the field and give feedback on improving their future methods. In short, reflecting involves examining past behavior and using that information to adjust for the future.

People can use this framework to think deeply about their past experience, whether bad or good, and learn from them. To do this, various models are now employed for introspective reasons. However, in this informative guide, we will gain a certain amount of knowledge on Driscoll’s model of reflection.

What Is Driscoll’s Model of Reflection?

As its name implies, Driscoll’s reflective model is on reflecting. This is one of the simplest models for students to use for quick reference in nursing. Driscoll developed this model in 1994 and further improved it in 2004 and 2007. Furthermore, the model describes the experimental learning cycle as having three stages. However, in 1970, Terry Boston’s questions prompted a deeper exploration of these three phases.

Why Driscoll’s Model Standout

Driscoll’s model offers several benefits, primarily due to its ease of use. This three-stage model is simpler and easier to recall compared to other approaches. Like we already know, the more user-friendly an instrument or framework is, the more likely it is that someone will utilise it.

What Are The Reasons For Use Driscoll’s Reflective Model In Nursing?

Nursing depends on looking at the signs and symptoms in patients. After doing that, the nurse can decide what you can do for them effectively and quickly. Moreover, reflective practices are central in nursing as reflections and feedback allow nurses to enhance their skills and ideas, especially their knowledge from experiential learning.

Due to this, Driscoll’s Model of Reflection is still heavily used in nursing and healthcare. It is simple and quite effective because the three stages of this model are easy to remember & implement. Driscoll’s Model of Reflective Writing or Reflection in Nursing is supreme for beginners looking to introspect and learn from experience. 

What Are The 3 Stages of The Driscoll Reflective Model?

If we look at the Driscoll reflective model, there are actually seven stages, which are divided into three steps. There are three versions of the Driscoll Model, the first version of which was developed by Driscoll himself.  

The first version of the Driscoll model leaned on the rather simpler model by Terry Borton in the 1970s. Driscoll model made it a bit more in depth with it’s three main parts. So, let’s dig deeper into Driscoll’s What, So What, & Now What Model.

Stage-1 What?

The three stages of the original model are the three questions that act as their foundation. By exploring these questions & developing their answers. One can define, analyse, reflect, and learn from experiences for a better future. The ‘What’ questioning stage represents the context & circumstances. It is the first step and involves: 

• Brief explanations of the situation, subject, event, or incident.
• Expressing what happened clearly and what actions were performed.
• How did the reflector initially respond? How was the first experience?

Stage 2, So What?

The second step of the analysis dwells deeper into the subject and involves reflecting on all the characteristics, reactions, and experiences. Here are some questions that need to be answered at this stage. 

• What does the evaluator think and feel about the subject and event under study? 
• The positive and negative aspects of the event?
• What was the reaction, and why did they react so?
• Was there any bias or conflict involved? 
• How have past experiences affected reactions and responses? 
• Was any other party in? How do they react? Were their reactions similar? Did their reactions influence the evaluator’s reactions? 

As you can see, the second stage is where most of the reflection occurs. Moreover, the evaluators analyse their reactions, responses, and understanding to determine the reasons behind such reactions.

Stage-3 Now What?

In the third stage, the actions are taken based on one’s reflections and analyses of the subject or situation. This phase not only investigates reactions & impact of the subject but also looks into the resultant actions taken. However, the now what stage lists the most influential and relevant corrective action in any field such as nursing. After careful analysis and reflection, the questions asked at this stage are generally as follows: 

• What has one learned from one’s analysis and reflection?
• Were there any negative outcomes? 
• What information is necessary to deal with this specific event better in the future? 

Benefits of Using Driscoll’s Model Of Reflection

Lots of students ask, “Why is it important to use Driscoll’s reflective model?” while writing research papers. Thus, this section will explain the reflective model completely to remove any confusion. The study claims that the learning reflective paradigm can used in more than just educational contexts and fields. 

The meditative approach speeds up the learning process and enhances the value of first-hand experience. Moreover, this model is developed considering all the possible applications in the real world. Undoubtedly, nursing is one of the many disciplines in which we use reflective learning. However, in the nursing domain, we mostly use this Driscoll model of reflection when writing essays.

Many parts of nursing have a wide range of scenarios which demand subjective assessment. They assist patients with different care needs by educating them about possible medical methods. Not only that, but by facilitating learning and exposure to medical situations, nurses improve the likelihood of providing adequate care. This will help patient interact productively and reflect on their experiences. They are leading to greater self-awareness and a deeper comprehension of the world.

Best Practice For The Driscoll Reflective Model

Models and theories of reflection are often aimed towards teachers. That makes sense, as they are the ones who must transfer this amazing knowledge to students and others. John Driscoll’s Model of Reflection helps teachers and others involved stay engaged in academic work.

One of the important aspects of being able to do this is to keep track of activities. This is vital and allows for evaluation and enjoyment of learning. Moving on, reflective practice is seen as a choice for professionals whether or not to engage in reflection about work. But in reality, all practitioners in all sectors think about their professional lives.

In his research, Driscoll states that when he investigates whether or not someone is already reflecting in practice. They would establish that this person constantly thinks about what they are doing.

He also suggests that thinking about an experience is skilful. An intentional act requires the ability to examine real-life situations and assess the success of strategies. What we often consider as reflection isn’t truly reflection. Reflecting on an experience or event usually requires more focus, resulting in essential or innovative thoughts or actions. This is the true meaning of reflective action. 

John Driscoll Model of Reflection Consequences Of A Reflective Work 

John Driscoll explains the subject; he names several consequences and conditions of ‘reflective practice’. Moreover, he also refers to Bulman, who suggests that reflection forces practitioners to face incongruities and awkwardness. At that time, the nursing sector provided the context for this study.

Furthermore, he says that reflecting on something requires time and commitment. The key question is, ‘Why did you do that?’ Responding to this question is a part of the process that needs frequent thoughtful reflection. Another important question could be, ‘Why did you decide to do nothing?’

Several other examples in practice (from the nursing sector) are:

• Improves group instead of competing traditional forms of knowledge about something specific
• Generate practice-based expertise because it’s based on real practice
• Values what colleagues do and understands why they do 
• Help others gain better insight into tricky and complex exercises
• Backing others by offering them the chance to talk
• Puts improvement of patient care first
• Encourages others to find the best ways of becoming more effective and to improve in practice
• Offers practical learning activities which can contribute to the training of other professionals
• Offers an investigative and evidence-based approach

Skills And Attributes Are Needed For Reflective Practice?

Everyone can learn to reflect on their actions because there’s always a lot around us that needs to be considered. However, in his research, John Driscoll says that becoming a reflective practitioner is a deliberate activity that strongly focuses on improving and changing the practice.

This can apply to employees of all levels and all sectors. Moreover, there are numerous skills and attributes involved in engaging in reflective practice. All are briefly mentioned below. The list you will see is based on the study by John Driscoll:

• Willingness to learn from what is happening in practice is required
• Being open to sharing all practical elements with others 
• Motivated enough to repeat aspects of the clinical practice is important
• The knowledge about clinical practice can be gained both within and outside the clinical practice
• Ability to describe in detail how a situation occurred.
• Recognising the results of reflection
• The ability to articulate what is happening in practice
• Being brave enough to think honestly
• Being honest in describing the clinical practice to others.

Driscoll Model of Reflection Pros And Cons

This section will discuss some benefits and disadvantages of utilising the Driscoll reflective model.

Benefits of Driscoll’s Reflective Model

• It is effective and fast in results.
• The procedure is quick and easy.
• It is simpler to understand and implement.
• It’s easy enough for beginners to use immediately.

Disadvantages of Driscoll Reflective Model

• It does not allow for more in-depth contemplation.
• They can’t handle deep or multi-stage reflection.

As you can see, there are two major drawbacks and five significant benefits. This demonstrates why the Driscoll reflective model is the best in your nursing practices. However, if your teacher or university still wants you to complete your assignment with the Rolfe Reflective Model, visit Top Assignment Writers. We can help you achieve your paper using this popular model of reflection on nursing care ethics.

Wrapping Up

We believe we have appropriately answered the question, “What is Driscoll’s reflective model, steps, practice, and consequences of a reflective work method?” However, if you still need help with the Driscoll model of reflection for your nursing essay, our essay writers can help you complete a high-quality piece on time!

Top Assignment Writers is known for delivering quality essay writing services to students worldwide. You can also contact us via phone, text, or mail anytime; we will assist you. Get in touch with us today for unmatched academic writing services.