🧩 Worked Example: Schön’s Reflective Framework
1) Knowing-in-action (our default approach)
We planned a one-day clinic with strong logistics: cold chain, staff, supplies, clear flow. Assumption was: “If access is easy, families will attend.”
2) Surprise (the situation “talks back”)
Mothers hung back. Concerns about side effects and “outsiders.” Posters in English weren’t landing. No prior word from leaders. Turnout stayed low.
3) Reflection-in-action (thinking on our feet) — during
On the day, we paused and asked: What’s going on right now and what can we try immediately?
- Switched to simple language and short verbal FAQs.
- Pulled a known CHW into the welcome area to greet families.
- Offered brief private chats for worried caregivers.
- Moved shade and seating closer to the gate to feel more inviting.
4) On-the-spot experimentation (small tests)
- 3-minute talks every 30 minutes addressing the top two fears.
- A CHW translated key points for small groups.
- Invited one mother who’d just vaccinated to share her experience (peer signal).
Result during clinic
Conversations improved; a few fence-sitters converted. Coverage rose slightly, but overall remained below target.
5) Reflection-on-action (afterwards)
The core issue wasn’t access; it was trust and recognition. Without prior leader endorsement or local-language messaging, the clinic felt like a stranger’s tent.
6) Reframing the problem
From “bring vaccines closer” → to “earn permission to deliver” (build social licence through trusted voices, language, timing).
7) Next time (design for learning, not just delivery)
- Before (T−2 weeks): Sit with village head, women’s leader, youth rep, and faith leaders. Co-design date, flow, FAQs. Record a 90-second voice note by the local nurse/leader in the local language (radio/WhatsApp).
- Materials: Picture poster + audio FAQ in local language; test with two mothers for clarity.
- On the day: Local nurse at the welcome table; scheduled short talks and a private consult corner.
- Timing & access: Avoid market hours; shade, water, queue tickets.
8) Evidence to collect (so the situation can “talk back” again)
- Coverage (overall and by household/compound).
- Conversion (number hesitant on arrival → vaccinated after dialogue).
- Language reach (materials distributed/played; radio/WhatsApp plays).
- Experience (1-question exit poll: “Was the information clear and respectful?” Yes/No).
- Safety (follow-up within 48 hours).
Prompt: “What am I noticing right now, and what small change can I test in the next 10 minutes?”