Transformative learning necessitates the loss of the old self. Two ways to deal with this loss are critical social theory, a dialectical, rational approach; and analytical depth psychology, a discerning awareness of the transformation process through a change in consciousness. (SK)

Describes elements of the Self-Directed Learning Process Model (control over learning, learner-teacher interaction, influencing factors). Discusses how reflection on learning processes can transform the way learners think about learning and make them responsible for their own development. (SK)

A holistic conception of transformative learning involves understanding of the self through spiritual, emotional, and mythological dimensions of experience, grounded in the idea of archetypes. (SK)

A participant-observer study included initial and 10-month follow-up surveys of 19 adult learners before and after the September 11th terrorist attacks; 18 described their experiences as perspective transformation. Grief stages were observed; the reorganization stage was most evident. Combining the models of transformative learning and grief…

A narrative inquiry into the lives of nine environmental activists in nonprofit organizations depicted the role of learning in sustaining their commitment to and passion for the work. Resulting themes suggest they recognize their work as a calling or vocation. Transformative learning plays an integral role in sustaining commitment and passion.…

Transformative learning shapes the learner in profound and far-reaching ways. Conceptualizations by Mezirow, Freire, and Daloz are based on viewing learning as change in consciousness, of humans as free and responsible, of knowledge and personal and social construct, and belief in liberal democratic society. (SK)

Compares the postmodernists' and transformationists' versions of interpretivism, in relation to epistemology, politics, and the ontology of the self. Sides with the transformationists and concludes that the differences between the two are overdrawn. (MMU)

Advance directives that enable individuals to control their health care are underused due to lack of patient knowledge. Nurses can teach patients about them using adult learning principles, transformation theory, and skills for learning how to learn. (SK)

Argues that a psychological perspective on transformative learning is narrow and distorting. Articulates a sociological perspective, discusses social constructions of reality, defines civil society within Gramsci's formulation, and proposes ways to analyze the transformative process within the new social movements. (Author/SK)

A study of workers in a Canadian Auto Workers local revealed an array of community-building projects and educational programs, many linking informal and formal learning. The workers are building a grassroots, working-class social movement. (SK)

Defines social change movements and the role played by individual and collective transformation. Addresses the debate over Mezirow's transformation theory and shows how transformative learning was used in the women's movement. (SK)

Transformative learning can be conceptualized in emancipatory, cognitive-rational, developmental, and spiritual approaches. Current research is examining transformative learning in groups and organizations, ways to foster it in learners, and ethical considerations for adult educators. (Contains 41 references.) (SK)

Change involves thoughts, emotions, values, and actions but thought gets the most attention. Learning to change necessitates an integration of rational and nonrational ways of knowing. Nonrational ways and human care are important dimensions of the learning process. (SK)

This study explores the potential of critical transformative learning for revitalizing citizen action, particularly action toward a sustainable society. Through an action research process with 14 university extension participants, it was found that a dialectic of transformative and restorative learning is vital for fostering active citizenship.…

It is believed that picture books can help us shape our political, cultural, and moral identities. Teaching and learning for democracy should be a transformative experience, and teaching with picture books can help make that happen.