What is transformative learning theory?
Transformative learning theory, developed by Jack Mezirow in 1978, was originally used to describe the experiences of women returning to work or study after an extended absence. This theory can be applied to all learners though, especially elementary students. Transformative learning:
- Happens in 11 phases, beginning with a “disorienting dilemma” and ending with continuing life with a new perspective and forging new relationships
- Invites learners to critically reflect on and evaluate their own assumptions and popular discourses
- Involves a transformation or shift in perspective; a change in frame of reference
- Triggered when a problem is encountered that cannot be solved through the current frame of reference; when we encounter new knowledge that doesn’t fit into our current understanding of the world
- Develops critical consciousness of the world, shaping students into people who can think for themselves and affect change
- Changes the learner in profound and lasting ways
- Fosters engaged learners instead of learners who passively receive knowledge
Kitchenham, A. (2008). The evolution of john mezirow’s transformative learning theory.Journal of Transformative Education, 6(2), 104-123. 10.1177/1541344608322678
How can technology help students engage in transformative learning?
- Using the capability of technology to connect us to people in other parts of the world to expose students to new and different ideas, developing critical and reflective thinking skills
- Providing a new way to explore a subject, such as math, which sparks interest in the field that wasn’t there before
- Showing students that technology has not simply changed our lives through convenience but that it can transform our lives by changing our views and engaging people in critical discourse. A great illustration of this are current social movements, many of which have been fueled by technology through social media.