What is Reflective Observation?
Reflective Observation (RO) is the second stage of Kolb’s Experiential Learning Cycle. It focuses on looking back and analysing the experience before moving to solutions or action.
In this stage, mediators are invited to pause, step back, and examine what happened in a mediation session, role play, or observation. This involves considering:
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their own behaviours and interventions,
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the responses of the parties,
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the communication patterns that emerged, and
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the wider context of the mediation process.
In supervision, Reflective Observation occurs when the supervisee critically revisits their experience — individually, with a supervisor, or in a peer group. The aim is not to “fix” or defend, but to explore what unfolded with honesty, curiosity, and openness to feedback.
Importantly, reflection is not passive. It is an active, structured process of making sense of what happened. It may involve discomfort as mediators recognise errors, missed opportunities, or unexamined assumptions — but these moments create the richest learning.
Key Principle: We don’t learn from experience alone, but from reflecting on experience.
Why Reflective Observation Matters in FDR Supervision
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Supports ethical practice – By slowing down and examining events, mediators develop insight into how their conduct aligns with ethical standards and obligations under the Family Law Act 1975 and the FDRP Regulations 2025.
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Develops critical self-awareness – Reflection builds awareness of triggers, biases, and personal responses, strengthening neutrality and fairness.
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Prevents repetition of mistakes – Identifying causes and consequences reduces the likelihood of repeating ineffective strategies.
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Strengthens perspective-taking – Reflection allows mediators to step into the shoes of each party and consider how an observer (e.g., supervisor, court, or peer) might view the same situation.
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Improves adaptability – By exploring “what else could I have done?”, mediators expand their repertoire of interventions for future practice.
Example in FDR Practice
A trainee recalls:
“During a parenting mediation, I noticed I was more sympathetic toward the quieter parent. Reflecting afterwards, I realised this influenced how I summarised their contributions. In supervision, I was able to explore how my assumptions about vulnerability shaped my neutrality.”
This demonstrates how Reflective Observation helps mediators see beneath the surface of events, building insight into both practice and self.