Tempris Daniels- ePortfolio Analytical Inquiry Reflection Form

The artifact I chose to represent my analytical inquiry skills is my Higher Learning paper
from our student development course. The Higher Learning movie takes place in 1995 on
Columbus College campus where students explore their racial identities and gain a better
understanding about the different cultures on campus. Specifically, I analyzed the growth of
three students using Cross and Helms theories, providing examples on how students have shown
development from a personal, educational, and professional lens. This paper required me to
explain and support my reasoning for making the different interpretations.
Reflecting on this assignment, this paper challenged me to assess ones analytical ability
using logic and examples from the movie to make my claim. Even in completing this paper it is
important that I recognize that students can only develop at an individual pace. Exploring these
developmental stages through a movie caused purposeful and good practice. As student affair
professionals, we look for students to develop holistically throughout their four-year experience
yet a students development does not end after college. Additionally, within the movie Higher
Learning, it became clear that actions and words from peers can positively or negatively affects
ones developmental process. Recognizing that all learners go through some type of student
development, I began to identify that each student does not fit into a single theory box. While we
can make logical interpretations about the different theories, we cannot make assumptions about
how students will develop.
Overall, this paper challenged me to not let my own biases factor in the way I view a
students decision-making process. Being able to foster and support my own reasoning for
making interpretations surrounding the movie aided my development in the competency.
Through this assignment I understand some of the best ways to practice student development
theory in the workplace.