Fostering Reflective Thinking with the Learning Achievement Self-Evaluation Record (LASER)

Abstract

We present the rationale, development, and evaluation of a simple tool designed to encourage reflective thinking in first year undergraduate students. We outline the role of reflection in undergraduate studies of psychology, and suggest how this may underpin the development of critical thinking. We then examine a ‘design brief’ which informed the development of the Learning Achievement Self-Evaluation Record (LASER). The LASER is then described, and an evaluation of its impact on students and the curriculum is presented.