Niemi (1997) undertook a longitudinal exploration of reflection among 110 medical students during the preclinical years, using student learning logs and identity status interviews. Based on content analysis, they described four levels: committed reflection (n = 14), meaning an analytical consideration of the experiences and observations made in the health care centre; emotional exploration (n = 27), an exploration characterized by self-consciousness, emotional expressions and embarrassment; objective reporting (n = 27), an exploration focused on objective events, clinical facts and performance; and, scant or avoidant reporting (n = 23) meaning reporting which is scant, empty, avoidant or diffuse. The committed reflectors were the smallest group (n = 14),.
