Post on 05-Dec-2014
description
1
Transformative Learning
Su-Tuan Lulee Mary McNabb
Gordon PrestonRebecca Walker
EDDE 801 Group #4 Presentation at Athabasca
University
2
Transformative Learning
Overview Research survey Criticisms of TL theory Implications for distance education Summary and conclusions Resources
3
Definition of TL
Transformative Learning is “The process of using a prior interpretation to construe a new or revised interpretation of the meaning of one’s experience in order to guide future action" (Mezirow, 1996: 162).
Idealized model of adult learning Learners who are actively engaged vs.
learners as receptacles Critical reflection, discourse, and relationships New perspectives guide actions
4
Doug’s Transformative Learning
5
Mezirow’s Ten Phases of Transformative Learning
Disorienting dilemma Self examination Critical assessment Shared discontent New roles, relationships, and actions
6
Mezirow’s Ten Phases of Transformative Learning
Planning action Knowledge/skill acquisition Role experimentation Role competency Reintegration
7
BEHAVIORIS
M
COGNITIVISM
CONSTRUCTIVISM
Instrumental Learning
Transformative Learning
8
Research Survey
Jack Mezirow (1994, 1996 - unit B) Adult Education Quarterly Journal of Transformative Learning John M. Dirkx, Jack Mezirow and Patricia
Cranton (2006) Andrew Kitchenham (2008) Edward Taylor (1997, 2007)
9
Empirical Research on TL
Conducted in a higher education context Most studies used a qualitative
research design Reflection is essential in the process of
TL Relationships with others is also
essential Context, both personal and socio-
cultural are significant factors
10
Empirical Research on TL (cont’d)
Most studies did not critically evaluate previous studies
Most studies did not critically evaluate Mezirow’s theory itself
Process can be gradual or epochal Process is irreversible
11
Criticism of TL
Need to distinguish between normal life cycle stages and TL (M. Tennant, 1993)
Perspective transformation not always dependent on critical reflection (Taylor, 1993)
Transformation may not be positive Transformation is irreversible
12
Criticism of TL (cont’d)
TL should suggest a more integrated and holistic understanding of subjectivity, one that reflects the intellectual, emotional, moral, and spiritual dimensions of our being in the world. (Dirks, 2006)
Too much emphasis on a rational approach ignoring the importance of intuition, imagination and emotion. (Boyd & Myers, 1988; Gravov, 1997)
13
Criticism of TL (cont’d)
Some individuals may never move beyond the intense emotions of the disorienting dilemma
Since TL is an “idealized” model of adult learning, is it over-prescribed in teaching?
14
Resources
Transformative Learning Theory Web site http://transformativelearningtheory.com/index.html
Journal of Transformative Education http://jtd.sagepub.com/
International Transformative Learning Conference http://transformativelearningbermuda.com/
Adult Education Quarterly http://www.sagepub.com/journalsProdDesc.nav?prodId=Journal200765
Group 4 Transformative Learning Web site http://transformative-learning.blogspot.com/
15
Can TL be Applied to Online Distance Learning ?
More open and relaxed than F2F Asynchronous discussions allow time
and mental space Documentary nature allows
reflection & discourse structurally and allows iteration and reiteration of concepts
16
Technology and TL in Online Distance Learning
Technologies (virtual world, Blog, stream media) can create life-like situations
Collaborative learning platform (LMS, social software) provides an opportunity for those who live in isolation to participate
Web conferencing simulates F2F learning experience
17
Examining TL Using Distance Education Learning
Theory
Community of inquiry is important in higher-order thinking
Community of inquiry is a valuable context for critical thinking
Transformative Learning
By Garrison, Anderson, & Archer, 2000
18
Examining TL Using Distance Education Learning Theory
Transformative Learning
By Garrison, Anderson, & Archer, 2000
Recognizing the problem - disorienting dilemmaSense of puzzlement - self examinationInquisitive Divergence, Information exchange – Exploration of options for new roles…Tentative Convergence, Connecting ideas – Planning a course of action, Acquiring knowledge and skillsCommitted Vicarious application to real world, Testing solutions – Trying new roles, Building competence & self-confidence in new roles …Defending solutions – Reintegration new perspective into one’s life.
19
TL in Online SettingsCase Studies
Case studies on various course topics, e.g., cultural differences, loyalty, teacher development
Phases of transformative learning evident … ¼ have fundamental changes in preconceived ideas, beliefs, habits, or assumptions (Boyer et al, 2006)
Many false starts and random associations in CMC … Able to make rational discourse (Ziegahn, 2001)
20
Technology in Practice for TL
21
Technology in Practice for TL (Cont’d)
22
Pedagogical Implications for Educators
Facilitate and support learning (Cranton, 1994)
Build safe, open, and trusting environment for
respectful, civilized dialogue (Taylor, 2000)
Post questions to stimulate reflection on target topics and to model process (Ziegahn, 2001)
Structure feedback to learning objectives (Boyer, Maher, & Kirkman, 2006)
23
Implications for Students
Be a part of a community of learners Responsible for constructing and
creating the condition for transformative learning
24
Implications for Societies
25
Transformative Learning by Any Other Name . . .
DeBono – Thinking skills training for mine workers in South Africa
Average fights 210/month 4 month
Post-training grievances 7/day 4 month
26
Summary & Conclusions
Areas for further study: Kitchenham: applicability of TL in other
disciplines. Taylor: is TL something to be
encouraged? Personal and social negative
consequences of perspective transformation.
Is TL theory the most effective method of bringing about changes in the way people view their world?
27
Summary
Transformation Learning process uses prior interpretation to construct new meaning and guide action