Visual & Project-Learning InstructorHonoria Starbuck, Ph.D.Service-Learning ReflectionsUse visual images to reflect on the LEADERS model of service-learning.

Texas Center for Service-LearningI was invited to present on reflective practice in connection to service-learning at the Summer 2009 Institute for Service-Learning in Austin, TX.I developed a focused vision board activity using boards prepared with terms from the LEADERS Model of Service-Learning. The purpose of the session was to use images to reflect upon the steps of the LEADERS model.Learn more about service-learning: http://www.txcsl.org/

What is reflective visualization?Reflecting with images produces a record that invites interpretation.Reflective exploration may use words or images.Reflective collages can jump start discussions and facilitate collaboration across differing roles in the service-learning team.

Reflective VisualizationSession ObjectivesTo reflect on each step of the LEADERS Model of Service-LearningTo integrate the LEADERS model and reflective practice into Service-Learning teams.

Focus group activity on a topic by preparing the boards with titles.

What do we do?Divide into groups with administrators, teachers and service-learning coordinators at each table.

Materials

Connect images with experiences.Think about specific service-learning experiences.Flip through magazines with an open “brainstorming” mind.Find images that intuitively match personal experience with the LEADERS steps. Rip whole pages from the magazines.

Can I use the scissors now?

Start cutting!Cut images from the magazine pages.Collaborate with team members to connect images to the LEADERS steps.Reflect on what the visuals symbolize for each step.

Present reflections as a poster with images symbolizing ideas.Collaborate with the team on a brief description to share with the whole group.Report why the poster is organized the way it is and tell of one or two key insights made during the cutting and pasting process.

Team Pink

Team Orange

Team Blue

Team Yellow

Reflective PresentationsHow did the images individualize the meaning of the steps in the LEADERS model?How did creating the poster facilitate conversation in the team about the LEADERS model?All participants give brief presentations on their part in the vision board and explain the reflections associated with individual images.

Learn more about quarterly small-group visioning series.Join a 3-part Bridging Futures Vision Series to explore personal and professional goals. Introduction to visioning techniques and potentialVision in Focus clarify one aspect of your visionVision on Hot-Wheels put an engine in your vision and break barriers and plan next steps.bridgingfutures.com

Would you like to schedule a session on reflective visions at your next conference?honoria.starbuck@gmail.com512-736-9394