Learners respond to written prompts that connect learning experiences within the course to other course topics or experiences of the students outside of the classroom. Reflective assignments are most effective when the questions encourage deep metacognitive analysis and are only graded based on effort rather than content.
Co-Curricular (experiences outside of the formal classroom but contribute to student learning) Please contact us at activelearning@uga.edu with an example to include!
Universal Design for Active Learning
Universal Design for Active Learning UDL and active learning share a common goal: centering all students in the learning experience. When designing an activity, UDL‑informed instructors consider how the activity could be open to all students while preserving the core learning goal.
Physical Considerations If handwriting is not required, allow typing or recording as alternatives.
Timing & Pacing Allow sufficient time. Consider allowing outside-of-class completion — reflection benefits from distance and quiet. Grade based on engagement rather than writing mechanics.
Social Interaction Keep reflections private unless sharing is intentionally scaffolded. Avoid requiring public sharing without advance notice and genuine choice.
Information Accessibility Allow reference to course materials or a provided prompt — focus stays on reflection, not content recall.
Ways to Participate/Express Allow submission in writing, typed, or as an audio or video recording.
Ramadhanti, D., Ghazali, A., Hasanah, M., Harsiati, T., & Yanda, D. (2020). The use of reflective journal as a tool for monitoring of metacognition growth in writing. International Journal of Emerging Technologies in Learning (IJET), 15(11), 162-187: https://www.learntechlib.org/p/217098/
King, T. (2002, July). Development of student skills in reflective writing. In Spheres of Influence: Ventures and Visions in Educational Development. Proceedings of the 4th World Conference of the International Consortium for Educational Development. Perth: The University of Western Australia: https://www.kesland.info/BUDH_Archive/BackUpHarchive/apel/stuskill.pdf
