To be effective, a reflection should

• be led by an enthusiastic, creative, and nonjudgmental facilitator
• purposely link the service experience to learning objectives
• be outcome-based
• have sufficient time for discussion/writing/presenting to make the activity meaningful
• be appropriate for the group (age, skill levels, culturally sensitive, etc.)
• engage all participants
• be conducted in an environment in which participants feel safe to express their feelings and observations
• address negative experiences, while highlighting positive experiences.