Vanessa Ackland-Tilbrook
Women’s & Children’s Health Network, Australia
Title: Through the looking glass and into the rabbit hole: Representational reflective imagery as a tool for practice development
Biography
Biography: Vanessa Ackland-Tilbrook
Abstract
Reflective Imagery is a figurative, descriptive language that assists with the portrayal of an idea, actions or objects. It is a form of communication that transcends culture, age, cognition & language. Traditionally midwives use words to reflect on their continuous practice development. Yet the evidence suggests that many midwives struggle with reflection. Representational reflective imagery was implemented as an assessment activity post completion of a Global Women’s Health module. Attending Nurse/Midwives were asked to illustrate their context position. They were asked to consider their role, and how they view themselves as practitioners within the current context of Global Women’s Health issues. Calico squares were given to the group and they were asked to portray their attributes and personal thoughts or opinions using imagery. Imagery could be drawing, sewing or quilting. A written description of their image was also completed explaining the choice of image and its significance. Students found this activity to be challenging, thought provoking and rewarding as evidenced below;
‘An understanding of what the client has experienced and from where they have originated from can only lead to a more compassionate and meaningful interaction in our delivery of health care’
‘This was a very rewarding and important activity. The feelings of contentment as I completed the process of reflection through this craft piece, caught me by surprise.’
Representational reflective imagery proved a worthwhile tool to aid in the reflection of the personal attributes that help midwives be with and care for women and their families.