Transformative learning in practice

As an educator it’s important to help students learn using different kinds of learning strategies. The transformative learning theory can be especially important for older students to be able to grasp new ideas and concepts. There are many ways that educators can introduce this kind of learning into their classroom, including:

Give students chances to learn about new perspectives. Teachers can provide an action even or disorienting dilemma inside their classroom. A picture, story, demonstration, or guest that doesn’t quite meet what they’ve understood can help do this. For example, students can learn about different political parties by actually meeting political candidates. They may have certain beliefs about government, but meeting a candidate who is kind and passionate about different viewpoints could be an action event for them. Similarly, teachers can introduce diverse authors and literature into the classroom, helping students see things from a perspective that isn’t like their own. 

Help students identify and question their assumptions. In the classroom it’s important for students to critically analyze their assumptions. Teachers can model this behavior by sharing stories of how their own understanding and perspectives have shifted, how they have been able to analyze their own beliefs, and more. Teachers can give journal questions that help students by giving questions that they can ask about their own assumptions, give opportunities for students to share, and provide writing and reflective time for students to analyze. 

Create opportunities for critical discourse. In a classroom that is focused on transformative learning, there must be opportunity for critical discussions. Teachers can help students have these critical discussions by providing space for conversation, helping students create pro and con lists of literature or articles, giving students opportunity for debate, or requiring students to prepare both sides of a debate to understand how there are multiple perspectives always at play. Additionally, small group discussions and activities can help students with this critical understanding. This kind of classroom work can help students really embrace other thoughts and experiences different from their own.

Transformative learning examples. There are many ways that educators can use transformative learning in their classroom. For example, when students are learning about world religions, teachers can introduce literature and articles that discuss different religions, helping them gain new perspectives and understanding. Additionally, teachers can give students an assignment to go and interview different people about their perspectives on a historical event. This helps students get many points of view and perspectives. Another way teachers can use transformative learning in the classroom is to give students contrasting articles on a topic, and ask them their thoughts and insights on the different elements of each article. This helps them to question their own understanding and move through the process of learning. 

Sources & recommended reading:   

https://www.ispringsolutions.com/blog/adult-learning-theories

https://www.wgu.edu/blog/adult-learning-theories-principles2004.html#close

https://www.sos.state.mn.us/media/1114/2014-train-the-trainer-participant-guide.pdf

https://www.td.org/insights/3-adult-learning-theories-every-e-learning-designer-must-know

https://www.bizlibrary.com/blog/learning-methods/adult-learning-theory/