Mapping #2

I used the metaphor of a cell to explain the process if reflection. On the surface, reflection may be nothing more than thought. Thus the outermost layer of a cell (the cell wall) is representing thought. This thought is controlled by our brains and directly influences all of our actions. Likewise, the nucleus is responsible for making decisions for the cell thus the brain is synonymous to a nucleus. Dewey went on to explain how metacognition is essentially a deeper layer of thought in which we "think about thinking" or "know about knowing". Therefore, the nucleolus (a structure within the nucleus that appears as a dark spot under microscopic magnification represents metacognition. It is only when we focus our brains (or zoom in on a microscope) that we are able to penetrate into this realm of thought (or see inside).

The nucleus is also the storage facility for DNA, the building block of life, and is therefore representative of our preconceptions. It is only through protein synthesis (or by living life on the edge) that we are able to reach the transitional point between 2 forms and take the dive into becoming something else. Therefore, the finished product of proteins is an informed belief. Also influencing our beliefs are the knowledge of threshold concepts, which are able to reinforce our informed thoughts much like ribosomes are able to aid in the construction of proteins. These proteins are essential in forming cytoskeleton within the cell, which is necessary for successfully maintaining its structure. Likewise informed beliefs are critically important in achieving success (via making a right choice/ modifying our behavior).

Talking about things that modify our behavior and things that are cues for how we should approach new situations... we are surrounded by them. Therefore, the intracellular matrix that surrounds every organelle within a cell (cytoplasm) represents external stimuli/environmental cues. We aren't able to approach new situations without some learned knowledge about different (but similar) situations that serve as food for thought. Similarly, cells aren't able to function properly when the cytoplasm is lacking essential nutrients. In order to attain this right concentration balance the cell undergoes osmosis and active transport. These processes equate to the process of transfer as things are being moved to areas where they are more accessible/exploitable. Lastly, we have the mitochondria which is the power generator of a cell. Although a very busy place, it needs time for processing energy just like we need time for silence in order to reflect upon and process our thoughts. Furthermore, the mitochondria is providing the nucleus with energy to synthesize proteins much as silence is providing our brains the clarity to process our preconceptions into informed beliefs.

I know some of these comparisons are a stretch but hey, reflection is a complex concept and can't be fit into nice little boxes otherwise this class wouldn't be nearly as interesting as it is. And come on, although small cells are pretty complex themselves. And boy are they mighty (making up life itself), much like the power of directed reflection! So I suppose they are pretty similar concepts after all, depending on how you chose to look at them ;)

I think Dr. KT would appreciate my attempt to relate back to something I'm very familiar to me and something I am passionate about. However, I also believe that she'd realize that there is much more that goes into reflection, and I'll need to continue to add components as my learning of reflection deepens