The Transformative Learning Theory

The Transformative Learning Theory

The transformative learning theory is “about change-dramatic, fundamental change in the way we see ourselves and the world in which we live” (Merriam, Caffarella, & Baumgartner, 2007, p.130). Mezirow’s theory, which was first introduced in l978, defines learning as “the process of using a prior interpretation to construe a new or a revised interpretation of the meaning of one’s experience in order to guide future action” (Mezirow, 2000, p. 5). This transformative learning occurs when a person’s beliefs or point of view change over time and according to Mezirow is made up of ten phases. Mezirow believed that there were four main parts of the transformative learning process. These “four parts include the learners’ experience, critical reflection, reflective discourse, and action” (Merriam, Caffarella, & Baumgartner, 2007, p. 134).

“The Transformatory Approach to learning defines effective learning as learning that leads to change at the level of the individual, the group, the organization and, ultimately, society” (Askew, 1998, p. 7). I agree that individual change will lead to social changes because they are interrelated and affect each other. An example of transformative learning would include the story of what happened to a relative of mine a few years back.
She was quite wealthy and was busy traveling across the United States at her leisure with her husband who was retired. She rarely came home to see her elderly father who lived alone. She was diagnosed with breast cancer and had to have a mastectomy with multiple reconstructive surgeries along with chemotherapy and radiation. Her and her husband had to suddenly stop their traveling and the medical expenses quickly drained their savings. Her priorities for living life changed dramatically from leisurely traveling across the U.S. to living life one day at a time, not being sick, and being able to pay her bills. Her elderly father became ill, but she was physically and financially unable to go see her father like she wanted to. She was able to get well enough to go see her father before he got very ill and passed away. Her outlook on life has remained positive though and likes to go talk to others with breast cancer when she is asked to go speak for group meeting and support groups. This type of transformative learning affects each of us during our lifetime and can lead to social changes.

References

Askew, S. (1998). Transforming learning: Individual and global change. London. GBR: Continuum International Publishing. Retrieved April 1, 2009 from http://site.ebrary.com/lib/waldenu/Doc?id=10223834&ppg=107

Merriam, S. B., Caffarella, R. S., & Baumgartner, L. M. (2007). Learning in adulthood: A comprehensive guide (3rd ed.). San Francisco: Jossey Bass.

Mezirow, J. (2000). Learning as transformation: Critical perspectives on a theory in progress. San Francisco: Jossey-Bass.