This article analyses the impact of a constructivist approach to learning in Jordan, where a traditional context of passive/receptive philosophy of teaching prevails. Student teachers were introduced to journal writing. It was expected that their experiences with journal writing would afford them a better understanding of how it would affect their learning to teach social education. Thirty students were given a short course in journal writing as a reflective learning tool in their final placement. The schools operated passive/receptive approaches to learning and the students in the sample had experienced this throughout their own schooling. The impact of the course was assessed using semi-structured interviews. Some students found the experience stressful, but 75% found it fruitful and motivating.