What aspect of learning is encouraged by student reflection?

Student reflection plays a significant role in enhancing metacognition and fostering a deeper understanding of the material being studied. When students engage in reflection, they are encouraged to think critically about their learning processes, evaluate what they have learned, and consider how they can apply that knowledge in different contexts. This introspection helps them recognize their strengths and weaknesses as learners, which in turn promotes the development of strategies to improve their understanding and retention of information.

Additionally, reflection allows students to make connections between new information and what they already know, facilitating a more profound grasp of concepts rather than merely memorizing facts. This kind of engagement supports higher-order thinking skills, such as analysis, synthesis, and evaluation, indicating a shift from superficial learning to a more substantive grasp of the subject matter.