To write, reflect and plan. Journal in educational practice

Abstract

Already in past societes, philosophers were aware of the essential role that autobiographical practices played in human life. More specifically, from the prehistoric ages, nomadic tribes, in order to not forget personal experiences such as encounters with dangerous animals, first began to leave graphic traces of what happened on the walls of caves. Today, it is certain that autobiographical narrative – in its many forms, oral or written – should be considered a valuable opportunity to understand reality. Given the existential changes that characterize modern society and recent pedagogical reflections which highlight the importance of education to critical thinking and reflexivity, the interest of the educational community regarding the possible use of autobiograohical practices has grown considerably. The journal, conceived as a form of written documentation – with a reflective and transformative dimension – has been experienced in recent years, allowing professionals to capture the complexity of the educational practice. The journal, in the professional field, is then seen as a necessary self-training and self-assessment tool.