What are the Reflection Sessions? (DP IB Extended Essay): Revision Note

What is the purpose of each reflection session?

Overview of the reflection sessions

• The reflection sessions are mandatory formal meetings between a student and their supervisor that are recorded on the Reflection and Progress Form (RPF)

  • RPF—a required document that acts as a formal record of the three reflection sessions and contains the student's final reflective statement

  • The reflective statement must be written in the same language as the essay; if it is missing/blank or written in a different language, Criterion E is awarded zero

• There are three mandatory sessions scheduled at key moments throughout the inquiry process

• The sessions are designed to allow students to articulate their learning, discuss challenges and set objectives for moving forward

• The reflection sessions support the student in producing a stronger reflective statement for Criterion E

• Reflection sessions often last around 20–30 minutes each

Initial reflection session

• This session takes place during the first stage of the process, focusing on subject and topic selection

• The primary purpose is to hold a dialogue based on the student's initial explorations (the preliminary research and background reading used to find a topic of personal interest)

• During this session, the supervisor and student discuss the requirements of the essay and the assessment criteria

• The meeting covers the ethical and legal implications of the chosen topic

  • Ethical implications—responsibilities regarding participant comfort, privacy and the environmental impact of the research

• The session concludes with next steps to refine the RQ

• At this stage, the research question can be provisional and is expected to be refined as reading progresses

Interim reflection session

• The interim session occurs during the development stage as the student moves from research to writing

  • The focus is on the student's progress and how they have navigated specific challenges

  • Students must be prepared to discuss the line of argument they are developing in their essay

• Supervisors may discuss academic integrity expectations and ask you to explain how you are acknowledging sources, but you are responsible for accurate referencing

• The student reflects on how their understanding of the topic has changed during the deep research phase

• By the time you reach your one-draft review, you should be sending a genuinely complete draft (argument, evidence, citations), not an outline

Final reflection session: Viva Voce

• The viva voce is a concluding interview that takes place after the final essay has been submitted but before the final RPF is completed

  • supervisor should read final version before the viva voce (authenticity)

  • the final submitted essay should not be changed after the viva voce

• The purpose is to celebrate the completion of the project and reflect on the overall learning experience

• Students discuss the transfer of learning and the insights they have gained from the process

  • Transfer of learning—the ability to apply the skills and lessons learned during the essay to future studies or career contexts

• A vital function of the viva voce is to verify the authenticity of the student's ideas and research (checking that the essay is the student's own individual and original work)

• Concerns regarding the work that arise during this session may lead to formal academic integrity checks