A model for facilitation of critical reflective practice: Part I--Introductory discussion and explanation of the phases followed to construct the model.

The purpose of this inquiry was to construct a model for facilitation of critical reflective practice, based on thorough analysis of the main concepts (critical thinking and reflection), related viewpoints, models and theories; and the data gathered and analyzed during, the naturalistic inquiry. The constructed model evolved from empirical observations, intuitive insights of the inquirer and from deductions combining ideas from several fields of inquiry. The model for facilitation of critical reflective practice postualates that practitioners have the inherent potential to change from auto-pilot practice to critical reflective practice. The purpose of the model is the facilitation of heightened awareness of the self, to enable health care professionals to consciously meet community needs and expectations. The desired outcome is transformative intellectuals who will strive to empower others to become critical reflective learners and practitioners themselves. The process followed during the construction of the model and the constructed model will be discussed in three (3) articles, namely: A model for facilitation of critical reflective practice: Part I--Introductory discussion and explanation of the phases followed to construct the model. A model for facilitation of critical reflective practice: Part II--Conceptual analysis within the context of constructing the model. A model for facilitation of critical reflective practice: Part III--Description of the model.