Introduction
In an academic or professional environment, reflection isn't just a box-ticking exercise—it's a tool for real growth. Whether you're a nursing student on placement, a trainee teacher reviewing classroom performance, or a university learner aiming for deeper understanding, Driscoll’s Model of Reflection offers a clear, practical framework to take your insights to the next level.
But how can you go beyond surface-level reflection? How do you unlock the full potential of this model?
In this article, we’ll walk you through essential tips for using Driscoll’s Model more effectively—ensuring your reflections become transformative learning tools, not just routine write-ups.
A Quick Overview: What is Driscoll’s Model?
Developed in 1994 and widely used in UK education and healthcare sectors, Driscoll’s Model of Reflection is structured around three core questions:
What? – What happened?
So What? – Why does it matter?
Now What? – What will I do differently?
Its simplicity is its strength—yet meaningful reflection requires more than just answering these questions at face value.
Why Go Deeper?
Surface-level reflection might fulfill the minimum academic requirement, but deep reflection transforms your learning and personal growth. It helps you:
Identify patterns in your behaviour
Understand emotional responses
Set purposeful, realistic goals
Improve future performance with intention
Let’s dive into how to apply Driscoll’s model with depth and clarity.
? Tip 1: Be Honest, Not Ideal
Many students make the mistake of writing what they think assessors want to hear. However, true reflection thrives on honesty. Acknowledge uncertainty, mistakes, or discomfort—it shows self-awareness and a commitment to growth.
✅ Instead of: “I handled everything well.”
✅ Try: “I felt overwhelmed and unsure how to prioritize, which affected my confidence.”
✍️ Tip 2: Add Context to Your "What?"
The first question might seem like a simple recap—but it’s more than a summary. Set the scene by briefly including:
Who was involved?
Where did it happen?
What were your expectations before it began?
Were there any challenges or unexpected events?
This gives your reflection depth and relatability, allowing readers (and yourself) to fully understand the event.
? Tip 3: Dive Deep with "So What?"
This is the analytical core of your reflection. It’s where learning happens.
Ask yourself:
What did I learn about myself?
What skills or knowledge gaps were revealed?
How did the experience align with (or contradict) my expectations or prior knowledge?
How did this impact others involved?
This section should connect your experience to theories, frameworks, or course content where applicable.
✅ Example (Education Student):
“In hindsight, my lesson lacked scaffolding. According to Vygotsky’s Zone of Proximal Development, I missed the opportunity to guide students from what they know to new concepts.”
? Tip 4: Make “Now What?” Actionable
Reflection without action is incomplete. “Now What?” should produce real, achievable next steps—not vague intentions.
Use the SMART goal framework:
Specific
Measurable
Achievable
Relevant
Time-bound
✅ Instead of: “I’ll do better next time.”
✅ Try: “I’ll review the communication protocol before each shift and ask my mentor for feedback after rounds this week.”
? Tip 5: Include Emotional Reflection
Emotions play a huge role in how we respond to situations, yet they’re often ignored in academic reflection. Address how you felt and why you felt that way.
Were you anxious, frustrated, proud, or confused? What does that reveal about your learning style, values, or confidence?
This human element makes your reflection more insightful and helps you manage similar emotions in future scenarios.
? Tip 6: Use Reflective Journals to Build Consistency
Driscoll’s model isn’t just for assignments—it’s a useful tool for weekly or even daily journaling. Keeping a reflective log can help you:
Track progress over time
Spot recurring challenges
Build a habit of continuous learning
Consider keeping a digital or paper-based reflection diary and review it monthly.
? Tip 7: Connect with Personal and Professional Development
Especially for students in healthcare, social work, and education, your academic journey is closely tied to your future career. Driscoll’s model helps document personal development plans (PDPs) and professional practice goals.
Use the “Now What?” section to link experiences to competencies you want to improve—like communication, critical thinking, or decision-making.
Real-World Example: Nursing Student Reflection
What?
During a medication round, I hesitated when checking dosage instructions and had to ask for confirmation from a senior nurse.
So What?
This moment highlighted a knowledge gap and affected my confidence in front of patients and colleagues. It also delayed care and made me anxious for future rounds.
Now What?
I’ll dedicate 20 minutes each morning to reviewing medication guidelines. I’ve also booked a session with my mentor to role-play similar scenarios.
Final Thoughts
Driscoll’s Model of Reflection isn’t just a formula—it’s a flexible, powerful approach to learning from real experiences. By applying these essential tips, students and professionals alike can move from basic to deep, meaningful reflection that leads to continuous improvement.
Whether you’re writing a reflective assignment or developing your practice on the job, the key is to be intentional, thoughtful, and always open to learning.
