By Julia Berendsen, secondary Visual Arts Teacher and Subject Area Coordinator
In a world where speed dominates, technology governs our daily lives, and distractions constantly pull us away from deep thinking, creativity and self-expression are increasingly under pressure. From smartphones and social media platforms filled with dopamine rewards to endless scrolling and notifications, the modern educational environment is not always conducive to reflection. In this digital age, the development of creativity and the ability to communicate original thoughts are more challenging than ever before.
AI generated reflection
One of the most common tasks in IB education is asking students to reflect on what they have learned, whether through classroom tasks, Criterion D, CAS experience reflections, or later through EE reflections. In theory, a reflection exercise helps students process knowledge and organise their thoughts. However, in practice, the emergence of tools like ChatGPT raises concerns about authenticity. When students are asked to write a reflection, many are tempted to turn to AI for assistance, potentially substituting original thought with an AI-generated response. While this may provide quick answers, it undermines the goal of fostering critical thinking, personal expression and engagement.
Handwriting & language proficiency
Even when educators ask students to write reflections by hand, there are trade-offs. Writing by hand can create a calm and focused environment, promoting deeper engagement and helping students form a more authentic self. However, handwriting is becoming less common in a digital age, and this raises an important question: How can teachers assess students’ evaluation of content and ideas without focusing solely on handwriting and language proficiency?
Visual reflection
For students new to English, the pressure of writing tasks can be particularly burdensome. When students feel less confident in their writing abilities, the act of writing itself becomes a barrier to learning. By integrating visual elements into the reflection process, students can communicate ideas without the added stress of finding the right words. Visual reflection, in this sense, becomes a more enjoyable and meaningful activity.
Supporting teacher assessment
Furthermore, visual reflections can be more time-efficient and easier for teachers to assess. Unlike lengthy written assignments that require extensive evaluation, visual representations often provide concrete and immediate insight into a student's comprehension, their cognitive skills, including recalling information and connecting past experiences. Teachers can quickly interpret visual elements such as symbols, diagrams, or colour-coded themes to gauge understanding, making assessment less dependent on language skills.
Embracing inclusive learning
Visual reflection offers a more accessible way for students, especially students new to English, to express their thoughts without the pressure of writing. For teachers, it provides a quicker, clearer way to assess understanding, focusing on ideas rather than language. By incorporating visual methods, we can foster more inclusive learning and streamline the IB assessment process.