Global Business Environment and International

Strategy MOD007191

Lecture 8
Self Reflection

Dr Andre Samuel
[email protected]
Learning Outcomes

•Understand the reasons and value of self-

reflection;

•Recognise why self-reflection is valuable;

•Apply self-reflection techniques and evidence

to assessment element 011;
Reflection: A Definition

‘Reflection is an important human activity in which people

recapture their experience, think about it, mull over &
evaluate it. It is this working with experience that is
important in learning’.
Boud, D., Keogh, R. & Walker, D. (1985) p 43 Reflection: Turning Experience into Learning. London:
Kogan Page.
 Why do we reflect?

• “Students will never take responsibility for their own

improvement until they learn to be constructively critical of
their own work.” (Petty, 2009)

• a powerful way to learn – to reflect back on what you have

done and think about how you can improve (Courtney & Du,
2015)
 Why do we reflect?

• Reflection is relevant to the learning process;

• Education research shows that it relates well to professional practice (Schon, 1983);

• It helps practitioners gain awareness of their competency and to continually improve;

• It ensures learners are responsible for their own lifelong learning;

• It fits with CPD activities – important if you wish to gain accredited status as a
Member of a professional trade body in business;
Try not to…
• be dishonest…

• make excuses…

• criticise or blame others…

• put in very personal or private information…

• focus too much on description, rather than analysis or evaluation…

• use colloquial language or overly emotive language - although you

can write in the first person…
Good phrases…

• This made me aware that… • This changed because…

• I identified this as a strength… • In hindsight, I would not…
• I found this important because… • Following this experience, I…
• I used my previous experience to… • Despite the setbacks, I…
• This meant that I should have… • This feedback was useful,
• I know that I need to develop… because…
How to reflect…
Gibbs (1988) Reflective Cycle

Gibbs Reflective Cycle, is a simple system of reflection,

providing:
•Clear description of the situation
•Analysis of feelings
•Evaluation of the experience
•Analysis to make sense of the experience
•Conclusion
•Examination what you would do if the situation arose again
Gibbs (1988) reflective cycle

•Description of the experience

•Feelings and thoughts about the
experience
•Evaluation of the experience, both
good and bad
•Analysis to make sense of the
situation
•Conclusion about what you
learned and what you could have
done differently
•Action plan for how you would
deal with similar situations in the
future, or general changes you
might find appropriate.
https://www.ed.ac.uk/reflection/ref
lectors-toolkit/reflecting-on-
experience/gibbs-reflective-cycle
Description
• Here you have a chance to • Helpful questions:
describe the situation in • What happened?
detail i.e. the experience • When and where did it happen?
• What happened in the order it
occurred
• The main points to include • Who was present?
here is concern with what • What did you and the other people
happened and when do?
(dates) • What was the outcome of the
situation?
• Why were you there?
• Describing the situation
• What did you want to happen?
exactly as it occurred
Example of Description
• In this assignment, I was tasked with acting as a new business developer for a fictional company planning to
launch a new product in a different country. The objective was to create a 10-minute presentation analyzing
the business environment in three international markets and assessing the potential success of the
company’s entry into those markets.

• The first step involved selecting a product from a list provided by the lecturer. I chose [Product Name], which
I believed had the potential to succeed in diverse international markets due to its unique features.

• Afterward, I chose three countries—[Country 1], [Country 2], and [Country 3]—based on factors such as
market demand, economic stability, and ease of doing business. Once the markets were selected, I conducted
extensive research to gather data on each country’s business environment, including competitor analysis,
regulatory frameworks, and market trends. (state name of models and tools used)

• The next step was to define the company’s value proposition and develop a sustainable business model
tailored to each market. I also had to identify key stakeholders, resources, and activities critical for a
successful market entry strategy.
• The presentation required me to summarize my findings within a strict 10-minute timeframe, which was
challenging. I used PowerPoint slides to visually communicate my analysis and included data points, charts,
and bullet points to make the content more engaging. Despite extensive preparation, I felt pressured to
condense a lot of information into a limited timeframe.
Feelings

• Here you can explore any feelings • Helpful questions:

or thoughts that you had during the • What were you feeling during the
experience. situation?
• What were you feeling before and after
the situation?
• How they may have impacted the • What do you think other people were
experience. feeling about the situation?
• What do you think other people feel
about the situation now?
• Recall your first gut reaction. • What were you thinking during the
situation?
• What do you think about the situation
• Reflect on any changes in your now?
feelings as time passed.
Example of Feelings
• At the beginning of the assignment, I felt both excited and anxious. I was eager to work on a real-world
business scenario since it aligned with my interests in international business development. However, I also
felt a bit overwhelmed by the scope of the task, especially considering the amount of research required and
the need to analyze three different countries.
• As I started my research, I became frustrated due to the sheer volume of information available. It was
difficult to determine which data was most relevant for the presentation, and I often found myself going
down research rabbit holes that weren’t directly related to the assignment. This made me feel stressed about
managing my time effectively.
• When it came to developing the value proposition and business model, I was initially confident because I had
a clear idea of how the product could succeed in the chosen markets. However, as I started to dive deeper
into competitor analysis and risk evaluation, my confidence wavered. I realized that there were more
complexities involved in entering international markets than I had anticipated, which made me question
whether my proposed strategies were thorough enough.
• During the preparation of the presentation, I felt the pressure of having to condense all my research into a
10-minute timeframe. I worried that I might not be able to cover everything comprehensively or that I would
miss key points during the actual presentation. On the day of the presentation, I was nervous but also felt a
sense of accomplishment for having completed a challenging assignment. As I began presenting, my
nervousness gradually eased, and I started feeling more confident, especially when I noticed positive
reactions from the audience.
• After the presentation, I had mixed feelings. I was relieved that it was over and proud of the effort I had put
in, but I also felt a bit disappointed that I had rushed through some sections due to time constraints. I kept
thinking about what I could have done better if I had managed my time more efficiently.
3. Evaluation
• Here you have a chance to
evaluate what worked and what • Helpful questions:
didn’t work in the situation. • What was good and bad about the
experience?
• Try to be as objective and honest • What went well?
as possible. • What didn’t go so well?
• To get the most out of your • What did you and other people
reflection focus on both the contribute to the situation
positive and the negative aspects (positively or negatively)?
of the situation, even if it was
primarily one or the other.
Example of Evaluation
• Overall, the assignment had both positive and challenging aspects. On the positive side, the experience
significantly enhanced my research and analytical skills. I was able to identify key insights about each of the
chosen markets, which I believe strengthened my understanding of the complexities involved in international
business expansion.
• However, there were several areas where I faced difficulties. One of the main challenges was managing the
large volume of data I gathered. While I was thorough in my research, I struggled to filter out the most
relevant information, which resulted in feeling overwhelmed at times. I realized that I could have been more
selective in my approach to focus on key data points that directly supported my analysis.
• Additionally, I think I could have done a better job with time management, both during the preparation
phase and the actual presentation. Although I practiced multiple times, I still ended up rushing through some
sections of the presentation due to time constraints. This affected the flow of my delivery, and I wasn’t able
to go into as much detail on certain aspects, such as the competitor analysis, as I had originally planned.
• One thing that went particularly well was the visual design of my presentation slides. I received positive
feedback on how engaging and well-structured the slides were, which helped communicate complex ideas
more effectively. This was encouraging and validated the effort I put into making the presentation visually
appealing.
• Overall, I believe that while I managed to meet the assignment requirements, there was room for
improvement, particularly in focusing on the most critical elements and managing the presentation time
more effectively.
4. Analysis
• The analysis step is where you have • Helpful questions:
a chance to make sense of what • Why did things go well?
happened. • Why didn’t it go well?
• What sense can I make of the
• Now you have a chance to extract situation?
meaning from it. • What knowledge – my own or
others (for example academic
literature) can help me
• WHY? understand the situation?

• You want to target the different

aspects that went well or poorly
and ask yourself why.
Example of Analysis
• Looking back on the assignment, I realize that my initial struggle with gathering and filtering research data
was a reflection of my approach to information management. I spent too much time collecting extensive data
from various sources, which ultimately led to feelings of overwhelm. If I had used a more focused research
strategy—prioritizing high-quality sources directly related to market entry strategies—I could have saved time
and reduced stress.
• Another issue was my approach to competitor analysis. Although I conducted detailed research on the
competitors in each market, I struggled to succinctly present my findings in the allotted time. This indicates
that I need to improve my ability to prioritize the most critical insights and communicate them effectively
under time constraints. Additionally, while I analyzed market risks, I realized I could have delved deeper into
country-specific regulations and potential challenges in the supply chain. A more nuanced understanding of
these risks would have strengthened the overall strategy I presented.
• On a positive note, one aspect that worked well was my ability to identify key stakeholders and potential
partners in each market. By leveraging the business model canvas framework, I was able to clearly define
essential activities, resources, and partnerships needed to support the company’s entry into these markets.
This structure helped me articulate a coherent and sustainable business model, which was appreciated by my
lecturer and peers.
• However, as I progressed and received positive feedback on my slide design and value proposition, my
confidence grew. This indicates that I perform better when I feel assured of my work, suggesting that more
practice and preparation could help alleviate initial stress in future assignments
5. Conclusion
• In this section you can make
conclusions about what • Helpful questions:
happened • What did I learn from this situation?
• How could this have been a more
positive situation for everyone
• This is where you summarise involved?
your learning • What skills do I need to develop for
me to handle a situation like this
better?
• Highlight what changes to your • What else could I have done?
actions could improve the
outcome in the future.
Example of Conclusion
• In reflecting on this assignment, I have identified several key lessons that will be valuable for similar projects
in the future. Firstly, I realized that effective time management is crucial, especially when preparing for
presentations with strict time limits. By prioritizing the most relevant information and practicing more
efficient ways to communicate key points, I can prevent feeling rushed and improve the clarity of my delivery.
• I also learned that focusing my research efforts on high-quality, targeted sources can significantly reduce the
time spent filtering through unnecessary data. This will not only streamline my workflow but also reduce
stress. In future assignments, I plan to adopt a more structured approach by defining clear research
questions at the outset to ensure I stay focused on the most important aspects.
• Furthermore, while I am pleased with how I applied the business model canvas and developed a solid value
proposition, I recognize the need to enhance my ability to synthesize complex information into concise,
impactful insights. I could benefit from practicing summarizing information more effectively to ensure I can
communicate the most critical elements under time constraints.
• On a positive note, I gained confidence in my ability to structure business strategies and analyze international
markets. This experience has reinforced the importance of thorough preparation, visual communication, and
the ability to adapt my strategy based on feedback.
• If I were to approach this assignment again, I would allocate more time to refining my presentation skills and
focus on delivering a more concise analysis. I would also ensure that I left sufficient time for rehearsals to
become more comfortable with the timing and flow of my presentation.
6. Action Plan
• How you can prevent negative
outcomes in similar future • Helpful questions:
scenarios. • If I had to do the same thing
again, what would I do
• What practices or strategies will differently?
you adopt next time?. • How will I develop the required
skills I need?
• How can I make sure that I can
• What specific actions you will to act differently next time?
implement next time

• Outline how you will develop the

skills you need the next time
Example of Action Plan
Based on the insights I gained from this assignment, I have identified several steps I will take to improve my
approach in future projects and presentations:
1. For future assignments, I will create a detailed timeline with specific milestones, ensuring that I allocate
sufficient time for research, content creation, and presentation practice. I will set aside dedicated time
slots to practice delivering presentations within the allocated time limit. This will help me become more
comfortable with managing time effectively and reduce the pressure of rushing through sections.
2. Refine Analytical Skills moving forward, I will focus on using tools like SWOT analysis and PESTLE analysis
more effectively to quickly identify the most critical insights for competitor and market analysis.
3. To reduce feelings of anxiety, I will incorporate relaxation techniques, such as deep breathing exercises,
before presentations. Additionally, more practice will help build my confidence in delivering content
under pressure.
By implementing these strategies, I aim to improve my overall performance in future assignments, ensuring
that I can deliver more focused, well-researched, and confidently presented projects. These actions will also
help me to better manage stress, maintain a clear focus on objectives, and develop stronger analytical and
presentation skills.
References and Useful Reading
• Courtney, M., and Du, X., 2014. Study Skills for Chinese Students. London: SAGE.

• SkillsTeamHullUni, 2014. Reflective Writing. [Online]. Available at:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QoI67VeE3ds&feature=youtu.be

• Schon D (1991) 'The Reflective Practitioner How Professionals Think in Action', London: Avebury.

• Kolb D.A. (1984) 'Experiential Learning experience as a source of learning and development', New Jersey: Prentice
Hall.

• Moon J (1999a) 'Reflection in Learning and Professional Development Theory and Practice', London: Kogan Page.

• TEDx Talks, 2015. The Value of Self-Reflection | James Schmidt | TEDxUniversityofGlasgow. [Online]. Available at:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=G1bgdwC_m-Y&feature=youtu.be