Applying Transformative Learning Theory to Open Education

Authors

  • Stacy Katz Lehman College

Keywords:

open educational resources, textbooks

Abstract

Open Educational Resources present a paradigmatic shift in the textbook market, particularly in higher education. Currently, Rogers' diffusion of innovation theory is the model largely utilized to understand the phenomenon of OER adoption. In this essay, I argue that a transformative learning approach would be more appropriate in examining and instigating the critical reflection necessary for facilitating this change.

Author Biography

Stacy Katz, Lehman College

Open Resources Librarian-STEM Liaison and Assistant Professor, Library

References

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Bliss, T.J. (2015, September 16). Why we fund open textbooks (and plan to do more). Retrieved from https://hewlett.org/why-we-fund-open-textbooks-and-plan-to-do-more/

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Bureau of Labor Statistics. (2016, August 30). College tuition and fees increase 63 percent since January 2006. The Economics Daily. Retrieved from /https://www.bls.gov/opub/ted/2016/college-tuition-and-fees-increase-63-percent-since-january-2006.htm.

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Jhangiani, R. S., Green, A. G., & Belshaw, J. D. (2016). Three approaches to open textbook development. In P. Blessinger & T.J. Bliss (Eds.), Open education: International perspectives in higher education (179-197). Cambridge: Open Book Publishers.

Lieberman, M. (2019, January 9). Slow Burn for OER Adoption, Awareness. Retrieved from https://www.insidehighered.com/digital-learning/article/2019/01/09/oer-adoptions-awareness-continue-grow-many-faculty-members-still

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Mezirow, J. (1997). Transformative learning: Theory to practice. New directions for adult and continuing education, 1997(74), 5-12.

Perkins, R. A. (2011). Using Rogers' theory of perceived attributes as a framework for understanding the challenges of adoption of open educational resources. International Journal of Humanities and Social Science, 18(1), 59-66. Retrieved from http://www.ijhssnet.com/journals/Vol_1_No_18_Special_Issue/8.pdf.

Rogers, E. M. (2003). Diffusion of innovations. New York, NY: Free Press.

Sheridan, V. (2017, August 9). A pedagogical endeavor. Inside Higher Ed. Retrieved from https://www.insidehighered.com/digital-learning/article/2017/08/09/robin-derosas-oer-pedagogical-endeavor.

UNESCO. (2002). Forum on the impact of open courseware for higher education in developing countries. Final report. Retrieved from www.unesco.org/iiep/eng/focus/opensrc/PDF/OERForumFinalReport.pdf.

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Published

2020-01-14

Issue

Vol. 6 No. 2 (2019)

Section

Essays

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