Transformational Learning For Individual Use

Transformational Learning Nathan Schultz Marcie Frankhouser

Transformational Learning Outline “The word “transformation” evokes the notion of profound physical or psychological changes”

Informational Learning vs. Transformational learning Informational Transformational Learning: Learning: To extend Can occur gradually, or

already cognitive capabilities into new terrain

from a sudden, powerful experience that changes the way people see themselves and their world

Transformational Learning: A Four-Lens Approach Lens One: Emancipatory Approach • Students should be empowered from the knowledge they gain, and be able to apply it to the real world. • Constructivist approach. Lens Two: Cognitive-rational • Focus is on rational thought and reflection. • Begins with confusion. • Second step is an evaluation of the situation. • The third step is to share the situation with others. • Act on the new knowledge.

Transformational Learning: A Four-Lens Approach (cont.)

Lens Three: Developmental Approach • Includes family dynamics and social class • Examines the interplay between education, and development • Teacher as a mentor Lens Four : Spiritual-Integrative Approach • Focuses on the spiritual aspects • The extra rational in transformative learning • Knowledge can be represented by symbols

How We View Transformational Learning Now Mezirow’s Theory • Part One: Transformational learning is a complex process involving thoughts and feelings • Part Two: The confusion at the beginning is not necessarily one dramatic event, it may be created over a long, gradual build-up • Is not an independent act but is an interdependent relationship built on trust. • “Personal contextual factors” such as a “readiness for change” make people predisposed to experience transformational learning

Groups and Organizational Transformational Learning • The goal of organization is to “realize its performance objectives” • Two types of group learning strategies involving action and reflection : • Action Learning—People are placed in groups and must solve a problem or issue • Collaborative Inquiry—Voluntary participation and the agenda is determined by the group without outside interference

Fostering Transformative Learning Ideal Conditions for Transformative Learning “a safe, open, and trusting environment” that includes: • • • • •

participation collaboration exploration critical reflection feedback

How to create Mezirow’s ideal classroom conditions Cranton’s Writings: • Instructors relinquish some of their authority or position power in the classroom • Use first names • Have learning contracts • Recognize learner’s learning style

Taylor’s Writings: • placing the learning in the center of their own learning in a critically reflective and social group environment • focus on the critical reflections and affective learning (processing their feelings on a topic) • discussions include thought provoking topics

Ethical Considerations in Transformational Learning • Educational field must acknowledge a teacherlearner-centered approach rather than an learnercentered approach • More studies and information on the dynamics of this approach • Adult educators need a forum to discuss curriculum and issues related to adult learners

Questions To Consider 1.“It is not what we know, but how we know that is important.” How do you interpret this quote based on your adult learning experiences? Do you agree or disagree? 2. Based on Mezirow’s ideal conditions, describe how you create ideal conditions and foster learning in your classroom.