Transformational Learning: A Literature Review and Call Forward

Authors

  • Joseph DeSapio Boise State University

Keywords:

Transformational Learning, Transformative Education, Mezirow, Literature Review, Critique, Critical Reflection, Identity, Practice, Spirituality, Story, Justice, Equality, Race.

Abstract

A gap exists within transformational learning theory between theoretical construct and practical application. Recent critical literature of transformational learning theory is marked by four trends related to this problem: alternative conceptions, the target area, identity, and a lack of practical discussion of applied theory. A survey of transformational learning theory’s origins, as well as recent trends in critical literature, demonstrate a bridging of the gap, yet not entirely. Suggestions are made for further study in attempt to close the gap entirely.

Keywords: Transformational Learning, Transformative Education, Mezirow, Literature Review, Critique, Critical Reflection, Identity, Practice, Spirituality, Story, Justice, Equality, Race.

Author Biography

Joseph DeSapio, Boise State University

Joe is  a professional learning and development consultant who has partnered with Fortune500 from many industries including some of the world's largest healthcare, cable, and retail organizations.

His academic and professional work focuses on human-centered design that creates transformational learning experiences in the workplace and society. 

Joe holds an M.A. In Theology from Covenant Theological Seminary and is expected to complete an M.S. in Organizational Performance and Workplace Learning from Boise State University in 2018.

References

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Kegan, R. (2000). What ‘‘Form’’ transforms? In J. Mezirow & Associates. Learning as trans-

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Kitchenham, A. (2008). The Evolution of John Mezirow's Transformative Learning Theory. Journal of Transformative Education, 6(2), 104-123. doi:10.1177/1541344608322678

Kokkos, A., Kasl, E., Markos, L., Marsick, V. J., Sheared, V., Taylor, E. W., & Yorks, L. (2015). Celebrating 40 Years of Transformative Learning. Journal of Transformative Education, 13(4), 290-315. doi:10.1177/1541344615606539

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Mezirow, J. (1978). Education for perspwective transformation: Women’s re-entry programs in community colleges. New York, NY: Teachers College, Columbia University.

Mezirow, J. (1991a). Transformative dimensions in adult learning. San Francisco: Jossey-Bass.

Mezirow, J. (2006). An overview over transformative learning. In P. Sutherland & J. Crowther (Eds.), Lifelong learning: Concepts and contexts. London, England: Routledge.

Mezirow, J. (2009). Transformative learning theory. In J. Mezirow, E. W. Taylor, & Associates (Eds.), Transformative learning in practice. San Francisco, CA: Jossey-Bass.

Newman, M. (2010). Calling Transformative Learning Into Question: Some Mutinous Thoughts. Adult Education Quarterly, 62(1), 36-55. doi:10.1177/0741713610392768

Poutiatine, M. I., & Conners, D. A. (2012). The role of identity in transformational learning, teaching, and leading. New Directions for Teaching and Learning, 2012(130), 67-75. doi:10.1002/tl.20018

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Transformational Learning Network - Past Conferences. (n.d.). Retrieved December 03, 2016, from http://transformativelearning.ning.com/page/past-conferences

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Published

2018-06-05

Issue

Vol. 4 No. 2 (2017)

Section

Essays

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