Reflection is probably the most important thing about continuing to grow as a teacher. It's a difficult concept, because people hate critiquing themselves. It's hard and time consuming to sit down and actively think about the things that you've done, their effectiveness, and their value. I think new teachers would have an especially hard time with the concept. I know when I'm leading a sectional or a rehearsal, I'm so nervous that I am completely focused on what I'm doing and pay very little attention to how it is received. I have the luxury of working with my peers right now, who are pretty attentive, serious musicians, but high school kids aren't going to pay nearly as much attention.
Reflection is at the heart of the teaching process because it is just that: a process. Teachers who stay stagnant, keep doing the same thing day in and day out without any thoughtful reflection on their actions won't become a better teacher. In fact, they'll regress in their teaching, because their students will become less receptive to their same-old, same-old as the school year progresses. Kids will get bored. Reflection doesn't have to be an individual critique. It could be a group process, like attending a professional conference to get new ideas about teaching, or actively participating in staff meetings to figure out what's working and what isn't.
I tend to only reflect when things are going really really badly...that's not a good habit to be in. I journal before bed when I've had a bad day. Plenty of good things happen in my life, but if you were to read my journals, you'd think I'd led the crappiest, most depressing life in history. I also reflect at church...God tends to bring out the best in me. :) For me, it's a very personal thing. I like it to be quiet, and I need to be focused. I always feel a ton better after I reflect on things, though.
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