Transformational Learning Essay - 1027 Words

Transformational Learning Transformational learning is a philosophy of change. It identifies people why change is necessary, what benefits will be accrued by changing, how to change, and most importantly, how to incorporate and embrace change in education. The study of transformational learning emerged with the work of Jack Mezirow (1981, 1994, 1997). Transformational learning is defined as learning that induces more far-reaching change in the learner than other kinds of learning, especially learning experiences which shape the learner and produce a significant impact, or paradigm shift, which affects the learners subsequent experiences (Clark, 1993). Numerous authors have published papers on various aspects of†¦show more content†¦Meaning perspectives naturally change and evolve in response to life experiences, especially those which induce powerful emotional responses in the individual. Often these life-changing events are personal crises such as divorce, death of a loved one, natural or man-made disasters and accidents, health crisis, financial upheaval, or unexpected job changes. It is these meaning perspectives which Mezirow saw as the raw material of the changes that occur in transformational learning. Mezirow (1997) further states that we do not make transformative changes in the way we learn as long as the new material fits comfortably in our existing frames of reference. Three common themes characterized Mezirows theory of the mechanism of transformational learning in the classroom. These were experience, critical reflection, and rational discourse. The students life experiences provided a starting point for transformational learning (Mezirow, 1991). Mezirow considered critical reflection to be the distinguishing characteristic of adult learning, and saw it as the vehicle by which one questions the validity of his world-view. He identified rational discourse as a catalyst for transformation, as it induced the various participants to explore the depth and meaning of th eir various world-views, and articulate those ideas to their instructor and class mates. Mezirow (1997) emphasizes that transformative learning is rooted in the way human beings communicate, and does not link itShow MoreRelatedTransformative Learning : Transformational Learning1585 Words   |  7 PagesJoseph Cardello May 13, 2015 Learning paper Draft Dr. Franklin Tuner Kean University Transformative learning overview Thinking is something we all do on a regular basis. The process of using our minds to create ideas make all of our decisions or to remember our earlier experiences. Our minds are complicated structures that we have yet to understand. One man has a theory of learning as an adult and his name is Jack Mezirow. Mezirow was concerned in adulthood learning and began to interpret hisRead MoreLearning Theory : Transformational Learning916 Words   |  4 Pages(1991) describes Transformational Learning as â€Å"an attempt to redress an apparent oversight in adult learning theory that has resulted from a failure to recognize the central roles played by an individual’s acquired frame of reference, through which meaning is construed and all learning takes place, and by the transformations of these habits of during the learning process† (p. 4). In correlation to leadership, based upon experience and acquired knowledge, transformative learning is part a systemRead MoreTransformat ional Learning Within The Student Athlete2596 Words   |  11 PagesRecent studies have demonstrated the powerful impact of transformational learning on feelings of cynicism among college students (Duarte, 2010). 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Most assume that TransformationalRead MoreTransformational Learning : Transformative Learning1835 Words   |  8 PagesTransformative Learning Following the ONE Decision seminar, a transformative learning shift resonated with me. Jack Mezirow, professor and leading Transformative Learning thinker describes, â€Å"Transformative learning refers to the process by which we transform our taken-for-granted frames of reference (meaning perspectives, habits of mind, mind-sets) to make them more inclusive, discriminating, open, emotionally capable of change, and reflective so that they may generate beliefs and opinions thatRead MoreFour Stages of the Transformational Learning Process959 Words   |  4 PagesTransformational Change Describe the four stages of the transformational learning process, using the textbook as a source. The text provides a pragmatic, practical definition of the four stages of the transformational learning process, including how this process can be iteratively used to create long-term change both in a persons life and in organizations. Each of the four stages when linked together form an ecosystem that continually delivers insights into how an individual and organizationRead MoreEssay about Transformational Leadership in School Learning Environments1660 Words   |  7 Pagescollective participants are encouraged to learn regardless of mistakes and measurement is achieved across both financial and non-financial measures (Hitt 1995, p.18). This is what Hitt (1995) refers to as a learning organisation; one that embraces changes and creates achievement from their planned learning and cooperative approach (du Plessis, du Plessis Millett 1999). Schools had previously looked at change as individual at the classroom level, but now the changes are at the school or organisationalRead MoreMy Use of Transformational Learning: Going Back to School Essays473 Words   |  2 PagesTransformational Learning consist of four stages which are, â€Å"recognizing a significant problem; confronting it intensely; finding a solution; and integrating a new prospective† (R-Model, 2010, p.115). When making any major life transition you will probably use transformational learning. You will first recognize that there is a problem or that there is something in your life that you would like to change. Second, you will need to confront the problem. You will need to do so with great intensityRead MoreLeadership Theories: Learning About Transformational Leadership and Authentic Leadership1470 Words   |  6 Pages However, using the Leadership Trait Questionnaire (LTQ) during the hiring/promotion process could help identify personnel who c urrently have those traits. I fully believe that leadership traits can be developed over time through experience and learning. With the complexities and advance nature of the human brain, it is how people are developed through life that makes them into effective leaders; it is nurture, not nature. However, most organizations are looking to hire leaders who have alreadyRead MoreThe Transformative Learning Project At A New York City Community College1084 Words   |  5 PagesIn Puerto Cabezas, Nicaragua, college students participate in a service learning project to earn college credits at a New York City community college. During this international service learning opportunity, students perform service work and conduct research to examine and address health and social problems in resource-poor communities. Students design and implement health education skits and workshops, conduct health assessments in local neighborhoods, and work at the local hospital. Program requirements