This article installed in me the motivation to engage in transformative learning process, to develop autonomous thinking essential to actively participate in the fast-changing world.
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"Becoming critically reflective of the assumptions of others is fundamental to effective collaborative problem posing and solving. Becoming critically reflective of one’s own assumptions is the key to transforming one’s taken for granted frame of reference, an indispensable dimension of learning for adapting to change." (Mezirow, 1997, p.9)
The article' Transformative Learning : Theory to Practice' by Mezirow (1997) is structured around three main subjects: transformation theory of adult learning; autonomous, responsible thinking; and implications for educator's practice.
The theory of transformative learning is based on challenging personal frames of reference (cultural assimilations and adopted from parents assimilations), which are constructed through habits of mind (expressed in durable set of codes) and points of view (continually changing through responses to problems). In order to transform our frames of reference, the process of critical reflection on assumptions need to take place. This process can be performed through instrumental learning or communicative learning and discourse. Transformative learning takes place when we reflect on our misconceptions and therefore change our point of view; if that happens few times in relation to a given subject we may eventually change our governing habit of mind. To summarize: "we do not make transformative changes in the way we learn as long as what we learn fits comfortably in our existing frames of reference." (Mezirow, 1997, p.7)
Autonomous thinking is a highly respected skill promoted by education and within working environments, where ability to manipulate information is essential to meet current needs. According to Mezirow, autonomous thinking is essential to active citizenship. For every learner therefore, it is a long term objective to develop such skills. To understand what it means, this quote by Meziorw summarizes it very well:"Autonomy here refers to the understanding, skills, and disposition necessary to become critically reflective of one’s own assumptions and to engage effectively in discourse to validate one’s beliefs through the experiences of others who share universal values." (1997, p.9) Transformative learning enables such autonomy.
In order to facilitate transformative learning, educators need to address specific goals and strategies according to Mezirow. Assisting students in recognizing their assumptions and frames of reference is a first step. Further, engagement in discourse as a social process needs to be stimulated and appropriate guidelines provided. Importantly, adult learner needs to incorporate new information into their existing frames of reference to be able to challenge them, there are various participatory strategies to inspire that through learner- centered approach. Educators have the responsibility to be explicit about the goals such as autonomous thinking and critical reflection. Nonetheless, the role of the educator changes to the one of facilitator or provocateur, in order to foster self-direction and to model the critical approach which is expected of learners.
References: Mezirow J., 1997, 'Transformative Learning: Theory to Practice' NEW DIRECTIONS FOR ADULT AND CONTINUING EDUCATION, no. 74, Summer 1997 © Jossey-Bass Publishers
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