Reflective Learning Theory
Learned reflective thinking will enhance the ability to solve problems which is a component of critical thinking (Huang, 2006). As a nurse educator I use the reflective process while educating my patients and their families. I work with older adults and caregivers and am assessing if the caregiver is accepting new information. When working with families I reflect on past patients and family situations and coach the family based on reflective practice. The quality of nursing care by reflecting and questioning prior assumptions, supported improved nursing care with patients and families.(Peden-McAlpine, C., Tomlinson, P.S., Forneris, S.G., Genck, G., & Meiers, S.J.,2005.
The use of reflective practice in a caregiver’s group I facilitate helps member’s discuss their past experience and relate to the situations and decisions at present. This helps the spouse or adult child to reflect and gives each caregiver the opportunity to hear other members and possibly link their past memories of experience to another group member’s.
The reflective theory best explains why adults learn because reflection allows the student to evaluate experiences and make changes in current ways of thinking and acting (Merriam, Caffarella, & Baumgartner, 2007). As a proponent that the most influential learning takes place through the evaluation of past experience, I argue that reflective learning theory allows for an individualized approach to mastering concepts.

References
Huang,I. (2006). REFLECTIVE LEARNING FOR STUDENTS' DATA MODELING. Allied Academies International Conference. Academy of Information and Management Sciences. Proceedings, 10(2), 29.
Merriam, S. B., Caffarella, R.S., Baumgartner, L. M. (2007). Learning in adulthood: A comprehensive guide. San Francisco, CA: John Wiley & Sons, Inc
Peden-McAlpine, C., Tomlinson, P.S., Forneris, S.G., Genck, G., & Meiers, S.J. (2005).Evaluation of a reflective practice intervention to enhance family care. Journal of Advanced Nursing. 49(5), 494–501.