Academic vs. Reflective Writing 
Writing assignments are part of every course at CCU. Some writing assignments require
academic writing that synthesizes learning using factual statements and scholarly literature; you
will be learning more about academic writing later in this course. Other writing assignments
require reflective writing that critically examines personal assumptions about course concepts
and applies new learning about these concepts to personal life experiences and professional
practice. Critical reflection challenges you to examine your learning and assumptions in three
ways:
Heart – Was there something you learned that transformed the way you feel?
Head – What did you learn that you didn’t know before? What confirmed or challenged any beliefs or assumptions you had?
Hands – Is there something that you will do differently due to what you have learned? How will
you apply what you learn?
Both academic and reflective writing assignments require clear writing that is organized using
well-constructed sentences and paragraphs (introduction, body paragraphs, and conclusion),
accurate grammar, and correct spelling.