A Reflective Journal Focused on My Learning through the Profession - Report Example

Placement Report This paper is intended to be a reflective journal focused on my learning through the profession and my beliefs that would help better my qualities to contribute to the field of early education. As the discussion henceforth emphasizes, I intend to elaborate how my work experience in Kiddiecare applies to a further augmented result in my professional field. Correspondingly, my belief that my theoretical knowledge shall also be of considerable virtue when applied alongside my professional skills has also been highlighted throughout the journal. Overall, the journal presents a detailed overview of my professional skills and my knowledge base relevant to the domain of early education or childcare inter alia with my beliefs and values towards my professional commitment. Table of Contents Abstract 2 3 Introduction 4 Main Body 5 Proceedings 9 Findings 10 Conclusions 14 References 15 Introduction In my opinion, theory and practice are two different concepts and have a strong relation amid them. This relationship amid the two aspects of theory and practice are complex and affectively influenced my life and experience. Using theory and practice has helped me in developing my personal as well as professional aspects with regard to childcare and development. In my personal opinion, theories focus on academic learning gained in the initial years of individuals; on the other hand, practice is linked with lifelong learning. In this context, managing time and children when referred to theory is different from that of practical. I am now experiencing that for the development of child and to provide proper care I have to be regular in my work and it is my duty to call up the nursery and inform about my absence. Contextually, relevance of theory is high in the life of individuals, as it is linked with quality learning. Theoretical learning is also regarded as a foundation or base that helps individuals in enhancing their skills and knowledge. From my theoretical learning, I had the idea of how to efficiently manage children and provide them care and I implemented the same in my professional life, such as keeping jewellery to the minimal and maintaining a no-smoking area within Kiddiecare. As per my understanding, practise and theory are also related in a positive manner, as both are important aspects for growth and development of the economy. It is also evident that learning is a continuous process and improvements of techniques are possible through practice. Contextually, theory as well as practice has their individual significances in the context of child development. In fact, providing childcare is crucial and the basic learning is vital in this respect. For example, when considering the field of child development or care it is observed that better knowledge about childcare through theoretical knowledge is important (Hatasa, 2013). Main Body In every profession, individuals need to perform effectively and gain learning as well as understanding through continuous practices. Therefore, both theory and practice are related and are important considerations for better enhancement and development. Education and academic knowledge are regarded as a strong vehicle for encouraging and ensuring a reliable vibrant workforce. I believe that education or theoretical knowledge is also of considerable importance to ensure capabilities of individuals that will be applicable for my future. Contextually, I realised that adhering to policies are more effective for the betterment of children. In this context, I believe that my learning from Kiddiecare has made me more knowledgeable and practical in my viewpoints, especially when dealing with child psychology. Through regular practice, with regard to time management, food management and confidentiality, I have become more worthy for a better placement in the related field. In my opinion, it is a wise decision for individuals to apply theory into practice to gain a better insight in the workplace or during child development. The theoretical learning about time management and sincerity helped me in my tenure with Kiddiecare. It is my perception that implementing theory to practice is regarded as the WIL concept, wherein the skills required are integrated through regular monitoring and experiences. During my tenure in childcare, I had come across various factors of real world experience by taking into consideration educational knowledge that was gained by me since childhood. The theoretical manual provided by the school also proved helpful for me in assisting me to understand child needs and their early development process better. I thus feel that there is a close relationship between classroom and practical knowledge when considering my intended professions, which related to child care and early education field (Ferns & Moore, 2012). As per my belief, it is also important for every individual to gain theoretical knowledge as well as learn through real life exposure so that the outcome is positive. I realised that it is a fact that theories are relevant in educational structure, which also helps in professional practice. Therefore, I can state that relationship between the two, as it is important in the long-term process. I feel the importance of theory and practice while working for child development, as it requires immense knowledge and practicality. It is not easy to deal with kids, as it requires proper handling techniques and tools those are effective for child development. Considering this particular aspect, according to Ferns & Moore (2012), “Piaget’s developmental theory (1953) views learning as a social process involving the learner in free exploration within a given framework, whereas, Bruner (1961) promoted the discovery learning theory which is underpinned by the notion that it is best for learners to discover facts and relationships for themselves” (pg 208). It implies that theory and practical knowledge is a phase of learning cycle, wherein the perception and experience together leads to success. In my opinion, both are vital concepts and are related when concerning the placement context. In the Kiddiecare, I have learnt about various aspects of child learning and their development, which is more than I have learnt in my classes. Theoretical knowledge, as mentioned, creates a base for every individual and helps in gaining a better understanding about the emotions of children. Contextually, theory elaborates the phenomena regarding a particular setting and helps in solving the practical issue. As a reflective statement, I believe that theory and practical experiences are at times opposite in meaning, but it must also be noted that theoretical knowledge often leads in enhancing practical approaches. The same has been the case in my life, as I had to enhance my skills and basic understanding, while dealing with kids and providing them the required care. After exploring the theories and practices, I understand that with the increase in theoretical knowledge, practice will also augment, as it is evident in my case. I am now capable to handling kids and their requirements through proper management of time and security. In this context, my experience in child development will help in getting better job prospects and the theoretical knowledge will help me in getting a better placement. However, individuals, due to their strong academic background and theory, may enrich their practical learning (Ferns & Moore, 2012). While exploring the relationship amid the aspects of practice and theory in placement context, I elaborated the fact that practice is a contrast to theoretical learning. Theory, as reflected earlier, is an idea based on few principles but practice is related to observation and experiment. In order to understand the reason behind every aspect, it is therefore important to back practices with underlying theory for greater relevance. In this context, the cognitive development theory or analysing behavioural theory had its practical implementation when I was dealing with children. In context of placement, I think that objective is to analyse both theory and practice in order to promote better strategy for a better understanding. Reflective practice is also regarded as a concept, which takes into consideration the experiences and knowledge of individuals for effective learning outcomes. Again, I have an experience with children development wherein I have to focus on their timely performances and activities. When exploring or reflecting the concept of theory, I identified that study and knowledge gained during schools is regarded as theory and practice, which implies the use of knowledge and understanding gained in the workplace (Ferns & Moore, 2012). Furthermore, from the understanding gained, I realised that there are almost few reflective activities in practice, which includes ‘reflection in action’ or ‘thinking on your feet’. Learning, as stated, is an important concept that increases the theoretical knowledge and increases applicability in the professional aspect of placement. Contextually, dealing with children and taking proper plans to meet the desired outcomes from the job is another important aspect. From a generalised perspective, I believe that both theory and practice are interlinked for better approaches and understanding for greater growth. Quality learning and teaching is therefore vital for professional growth and for the success of placement. In my opinion, placement requires both practical understanding and theoretical base for long-term sustainability. For instance, in a child development profession it is important for individuals to have a strong theoretical knowledge for better analytical skills and reasoning, as per my observation. It is correspondingly justifiable to state that practice and theory are interlinked in the life of individuals. I have realised that theory and practice both are important to attain success in the long run in every field and my learning as well as experience in the child care will help me in attaining a better placement in this domain. In a workplace, not only the theoretical knowledge matters but also performance and practice matters significantly. Learning is an ongoing process and therefore use of practical wisdom and learning is relevant. I believe that individuals with a strong foundation or learning will always have a strong cognitive behaviour towards learning. In my current job position, I have learnt about various aspects of life, such as understanding and abiding by policies for better growth in future. Proceedings Problem solving theory is one such aspect that is to be taken into consideration when reflecting various thoughts in context of placement. Problem solving theory is a phenomenon, which is linked with practice for enhancing effectiveness. Solving problems and ensuring proper solutions are the main themes of this theory but practical knowledge is required to support this aspect. In the child development program when students face difficulties and issues regarding learning, it is important for teachers such as me to behave maturely and take effective decisions. Due to the background knowledge, I have the capability of making decisions based on real world aspects and theoretical understandings (Maire, 2010). Theories are vital to understand or understand behaviours of individuals through the assistance of practice or real world outcomes. I believe that theory is of substantial significance when trying to relate or understand the behaviour of children for making relevant decisions, which is best for them. It is a fact that theory helps in gaining better insights for taking appropriate decisions for a sustainable future. Basic theory and academic knowledge is also important in context of placement, as the placement coordinator during interview will judge me on my learning and experience. Theory also acts as a guide when referring to practical knowledge. As per my understanding, theory creates the base of the learning cycle and is important in child development (Maire, 2010). Placement is also important for me and I have an experience through my tenure in Kiddiecare. For instance, teachers are provided with placement classes those are linked with not only theoretical learning but also with practical learning. In my case, I will require no classroom learning as I work for the development of children and their growth. Regular monitoring of children and providing them proper support is my job responsibility supported through academic knowledge. When searching for a job it is also important for a placement interview, wherein it is observed that individuals with only theoretical knowledge are not entertained but individuals with practical knowledge and analytical skills like me are given importance. As per my understanding, it is a fact that practice leads to in-depth understanding and ensures growth as the experience is first hand. I have gained immense knowledge and competencies due to my experience with children (Maire, 2010). I am also capable to managing time and events on a timely basis and taking care of the requirements of children, which would help me become more competent towards placement. According to me, it is important for every individual to apply understanding gained from practice when considering placement. From the above analysis and as per my understanding, learning, theory and practice are all related. Without a strong theoretical base, individuals will not be able to make effective decisions. Competencies are also important for placement, as those are linked with real life experiences. It can therefore be stated that any individual learning from practice has a greater impact on the life of people as in my case scenario (Maire, 2010). Findings Placement learning implies to the process of learning, which is related with degree studies for better output. In this form of learning, not only knowledge is enhanced but skills are also considered to attain greater experiences. Enhancement of skills, such as interpersonal qualities and other dimensions are therefore linked with greater success. During placement learning not only academic areas are taken care off but also the ongoing learning helps in determining skills as well as techniques. In my case, child development in Kiddiecare will be effective for placement and help me in obtaining a better insight. Placement is undoubtedly a wide concept and is linked with experiences and knowledge. When considering placement it is therefore crucial for individuals to stay focussed and implement the learning gained. It is thus observed that during placement, I will be judged on various aspects such as mental stability, learning, experience and skills required for the jobs. Taking correct decision through evaluating various aspects, are also linked with theory and practice. These aspects I already do inherent due to my practical experience with children and theoretical knowledge (Ferns & Moore, 2012). Training is provided during placement, which takes into consideration both ongoing learning and academic knowledge. In my perspective, when we are preparing for a placement, the basic understanding is to display our education and theoretical knowledge with regard to practice. The theoretical knowledge is also regarded as a first preference for the fresher’s, however when selecting candidates with experience, practical knowledge is given more weightage. In the present day scenario, it is observed that people having the ability to solve issues backed with theoretical knowledge are given more preferences in childcare. For example, if I am not well qualified and have no theoretical knowledge, I will require immense training and practical exposure to gain corrective understanding. In this similar context, if I am well acquainted with theory as well practical knowledge, I will be given preference because I have linked my abilities with academic knowledge in my present job and the same will be useful in my future endeavours (Ferns & Moore, 2012). Nevertheless, it is worthy to state that theory can be considered as a base but cannot lead to success if it is not supported with practical ideas and sufficient exposure. I will be given more priority during placement for greater effectiveness. Theory assists in collecting information and gaining better understanding for proper analysis. It is a fact that theory can only provide explanation related to a subject matter but will not be able to fetch the entire need. Theories are of various forms such as explanatory, descriptive as well as relational. These theories are linked with practical understanding in order to provide a realistic view. During my placement, it will be vital for me to exhibit my practical knowledge and in a positive manner for greater effectiveness (Priede, 2014). I believe that relevance of theory can be elaborated by considering its usage when stating the cause and effect in the practical world. However, considering the aspects of various theorists, it is believed that not every theory has its applicability in the real world. On the other hand, it can be stated that theory is important, as it helps in easy predictability based on various analyses (Priede, 2014). In this context, I realised that theory and practice together can help in enhancing the output and help in increasing the number of placements. Placement practice is linked with the concept wherein both theory as well as reasoning is used for attaining positive results. In the context of placement in any given field, it is observed that theory and practical learning both helps in eliminating discriminations, which are vital for placement (Maire, 2010). From the entire analysis of the research study, with regard to theory and practice, it can be revealed that in any given field, such as nursing or teaching placement, has its importance. Contextually, placement involves various key aspects and thus in this regard it can be signified that practice placement is interlinked with theoretical perspectives and realities of life. In the placement, learning students usually are given the scope to enhance their learning and knowledge based by considering various aspects. Considering various important aspects, it can be stated that theories are being streamlined into practice for greater effectiveness and sustainability. It is also important for every individual to realise the importance of theory that is being used by him or her and is brought into practice. Moreover, when considering for placement, various aspects are to be analysed to understand the cognitive and behavioural traits. In my field, if I am not able to show proper attitude to children, it might imply that the training and practical exposure of the individual is incorrect or lagging. When an individual goes for a placement, the candidate needs to go through a process wherein the knowledge of individual is judged for providing better work. In the given examination, theory related questions are evaluated as well as questions related to practical experiences are asked for better selection in the placement (Maire, 2010). In this regard, I think it is important to assist individuals to obtain the best through practice placement. I observe it in various circumstances that during placements, individuals easily clear the theoretical round based on their academic knowledge but in the practical aspect, they fail. There are various theories those have a greater extent of applicability in the present day practices during my childcare experience. Problem solving theory is important, as it helps people to take corrective decisions based on situation by analysing the pros and cons. In this context, it can be reflected that practice helps or seeks to attain positive learning through exposure in various learning situations. When a person is aware and motivated and faces various issues, through the implementation of problem solving theory and critical analysis, individuals can gain better placement. Practice and theory are interlinked when considering placement aspects for greater effectiveness and sustainability in the long run. There are various relations between theories and its applicability in practical life for considering placement aspects. Therefore, theory and practice is vital when considering placement, as theory indeed directs practice and provides a strong base. Conceptual learning is what individuals gain from evaluating various theories and direct practices as per my understanding. In this regard, I can state that academic learning or theory creates a base and practice helps in constructing the plan. Therefore, individuals with both theoretical knowledge and practical learning can meet the placement requirements (Maire, 2010). Conclusions From the above analysis of the paper, it can be reflected that theory and practice, both have its significance in the life of individuals. I have an experience in the child development and hence it is my belief that my placement will be effective due to my ongoing experience. When considering placement it is reflected that learning through practice helps individuals to attain a strong position. To increase the efficiency of work and to attain success, it is believed that both theory and practice are required. Therefore, it can be stated that although both are two different dimensions, these are mutually related for attaining effectiveness in the process of placement and work. Learning is a process that is continuous in nature and hence can never end. In this context, I can state that my practical experience and integration amid learning and practice have helped me in gaining better insight for a better future. Environment leads to provide practical knowledge and theory such as problem solving helps in understanding the scenario effectively before taking a decision. Therefore, I believe that theory and practice are interlinked and requires each others’ support for creating effectiveness in the process in the long run. For clarity and attainment of new heights in the context of placement both theory and practice is relevant and considered. References Ferns, S. & Moore, K., 2012. Assessing student outcomes in fieldwork placements: An overview of current practice. Asia-Pacific Journal of Cooperative Education, Vol. 13, No. 4, pp. 207-224. Hatasa, Y. A., 2013. The Gap between Theory and Practice: Problems and Possibilities. Journal CAJLE, Vol. 14, pp. 1-17. Maire, J.A., 2010. Bridging the Gap Between Learning At Work And In The Classroom Through A Structured Post-Placement Seminar. Asia-Pacific Journal of Cooperative Education, Vol. 11, No. 3, pp. 103-113. Priede, D., 2014. The Relationship between Theory and Practice/Application. Research Paper, pp. 1-10. Read More