In this study of peer instructors in three Learning in Retirement Programs, the constructivist elements embedded in Mezirow's theory of transformational learning are examined at the theoretical intersections of transformational learning and developmental constructivism, specifically the work of Robert Kegan, resulting in a suggested developmental…

Review of 39 studies on perspective transformation reveals the need to recognize the significant influence of context, a lesser role for critical reflection, and a greater role for other ways of learning. A more encompassing view of transformative learning includes affective learning, nonconscious learning, relationships, and collective…

The author discusses the historical development of Mezirow's theory of perspective transformation (seen as adult learning that leads to social action). Problems with this concept are discussed and the author concludes that perspective transformation, while an important concept, is not a complete theory of adult learning and education. (CH)

Mezirow restates the major ideas of his transformation theory and addresses criticisms in terms of adult development, ideology, and Freire's concept of conscientization. Tennant and Newman's reactions are followed by Mezirow's response. (SK)

Women acquire knowledge and identity in different ways. The history of women's educational inequities, current state of women's literacy, and methods of literacy programs justify gender-specific programing based on adult learning theories that are focused on construction of experience and perspective transformation. (SK)

Summarizes four theoretical perspectives on transformative learning as consciousness raising, critical reflection, development, and individuation. (SK)

A group of Jewish women used collaborative inquiry techniques of action-reflection, holistic ways of knowing, emotional probing, and validity procedures to explore their experience of internalized oppression. They used healing strategies such as storytelling, songs, art, movement, and theatre in the transformative process. (SK)

The principles of relationships, relevance, and rigor (the three R's) provide a framework for structuring conversations and initiatives in instructional practice (Wagner, 2002). Typically, this framework is applied to student learning. In this article, the authors apply the three R's to adult learning and highlight three small schools in order to…

Social work programs that prepare students for culturally competent practice rely on the principle that cultural identity and differences are positive; and that social work services need to be delivered in ways which are culturally acceptable to clients and enhance their ethnic group participation and power. Cross-cultural experiences facilitate…

Definitions are central to both the practice and the power of leadership. This deceptively simple supposition was the basis for an elective doctoral leadership seminar at Illinois State University designed and taught by Lyman in Fall 2005, and replicated by Gardner in Spring 2007. The authors featured the same texts and stimulated students'…

An expanded model of learning upon which to base continuing professional education views knowledge as the social construction of information through constructivist and transformative learning. The model also depicts the effect of context on the process. Providers must change their mindset and become active facilitators of knowledge construction.…

The concept of the autonomous learner underlies discourse in self-directed, experiential, transformative, and lifelong learning. However, full autonomy is rarely possible for reasons of culture, gender, and class. Extensive accountability requirements also limit the autonomy of learners, teachers, and institutions. (Contains 54 references.) (SK)

This research project explored the manner in which veteran school principals learn of, and become committed to, new perspectives and practices. Personal stories of formative and transformative change from the careers of 23 school principals were collected and analyzed comparatively. Four analytic frameworks emerged from the project and provide a…

For most reentry women students, development entails a shift from identifying themselves in terms of their psychological surroundings to authoring and authorizing their own identity. Reentry women need both self-direction and supports that promote development. (SK)

Emotion-laden images that arise within adult learning provide a symbolic language for helping teachers and learners understand and facilitate transformation at both the individual and group levels.