Integrating a critical reflection framework for experiential learning activities into a large first-year engineering course

Abstract

First-year university is an ideal time for students to begin the development of critical thinking and self-directed learning skills. Structuring critical reflection with experiential learning activities can provide opportunities for students to develop and learn how to apply these skills in the future. Previous research has identified considerations for implementing critical reflection into the first-year engineering curricula in ways that students will meaningfully engage. The primary goal of this work was to integrate critical reflection learning outcomes, activities, and assessments into the first-year engineering curriculum connected to experiential learning activities. Critical reflection activities were scaffolded to a critical reflection framework, adapted to the first-year engineering context. Three critical reflection assessments were mapped to experiential learning activities to further the development of these skills in parallel, such as teamwork, problem solving, and communication. One assignment involved a peer review process, where students had the opportunity to learn from each other’s experiences, and give constructive feedback through learning of students’ shared university experiences. The benefits of developing student reflection skills are obvious, and the improvements witnessed are encouraging. However, there remain many challenges, particularly with respect to assessment methodologies, and student motivation. Meaningful integration of critical reflection remains an iterative learning experience for the instructors.