Learning Process Through Contemplative Education: Writing Reflections in a Journal

Abstract

This article aimed to describe the learning process of contemplative education, through journal writing. Learning by contemplative education consists of three processes: 1) a dialogue process (creating understanding of people who participated in shared learning), 2) a deep listening process (listening without judging other's opinion), as well as 3) the Gibbs' reflection process, which includes the 6 following steps: a) description, b) feelings, c) evaluation, d) analysis, e) general conclusions, and f) personal action plans. This process is based on communion and connection, as well as awareness, which is divided into 7 categories according to the Tree of Contemplative Practices diagram in order to develop willing and doings, learning about feeling as well as thinking and judging. The learning schedule is organized by applying the 3 H: Hands, Heart, and Head. Evaluation of the journal writing is done after exchanging feelings, using previous experiences to help them analyze and draw conclusions from rational thinking to plan their future actions. With the belief that the learners must have concrete experience first, then ponder on the experiences through various aspects from the reflective observations that aim to self-transformative learning. It is a way to review and reflect on one's actions that are reflection by being able to express both oral and written notes, as well as self and group reflection.