Image for Donald Schön's theory of learning

Donald Schön's theory of learning

Donald Schön's theory of learning emphasizes how professionals develop expertise through a reflective process. It involves "theory-in-use"—how individuals act based on their current understanding—and "reflection-in-action," which is thinking critically and adjusting behavior while working in real-time. This dynamic process allows professionals to learn from experience, adapt approaches, and improve their practice continuously. Schön highlights that effective learning happens through ongoing reflection during activities, helping practitioners navigate complex, uncertain situations more thoughtfully and competently.