Mezirow’s Theory ofTransformational

Learning

byC.S. Holt

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What is transformational learning?

The process of recognizing, analyzing and making deliberate changes to the assumptions that we have that cause us to think act and behave in certain ways.

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5 MAIN STEPS

THAT LEAD TO

TRANSFORMATIONAL LEARNING

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5 Step Process of Transformation

1. Identify assumptions (What are assumptions?)

2. Identify the cultural or historical origins of assumptions(Where did this idea or behavior come from?)

3. Question the real meaning of the assumptions(What is the underlying reason for the assumption?)

4. Develop alternative ways of behaving(How can we act, think or do things differently?)

5. Meaningful Reflection

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Step 1 : Identify AssumptionsAssumptions are the underlying feelings, attitudes and thoughts that learners possess within them.

They originate in many different places.

They can be historical, social or cultural or otherwise

The learner behaves or believes certain things because it is an expected or taught behavior.

Assumptions guide learners in all aspects of their lives. They guide the way that we see, feel and think about the world around us.

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Assumptions are created within a certain context.

They govern how we view reality.

Some of the contexts include race, gender, ethnicity, organizational structures, and personal experiences.

The context of these assumptions must be discovered because it helps the learner to understand why they feel and behave in a certain way.

Step 2 : Analyze the Assumptions

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The validity of the assumptions must be questioned and the learner must know what these assumptions really mean for them as an individual.

The learner decides whether each of the assumptions is useful, meaningful and beneficial to their lives.

Step 3 : Question the real meaning of Assumptions

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The learner takes all of the previous knowledge and begins to make new choices that are more meaningful, inclusive and open.

Learners must begin the transfer this new knowledge to create new behaviors and thoughts.

The learner has allowed a transformation to take place through thoughtful reflection and analysis.

Step 4: Develop Alternative Behaviors

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Step 5: Reflection (3 types)

1. ContentThinking of the actual content

2. ProcessThinking of how to handle the experience

3. PremiseExamining long held beliefs and

assumptions

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Overview

The 5 main steps that lead to Transformational learning describe the basic overall process

There are more detailed behaviors that occur within each of the 5 steps

There are 10 phases of development that give a more detailed view of the learning process. These phases include some parts of each of the 5 steps.

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PHASES OF

TRANSFORMATIONAL

LEARNING

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Important Points

There are 5 overall main steps & overarching ideas of the transformational learning process

but …..

There are 10 mini-phases that you will go in and out of during the process of transforming yourself

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10 Phases of Transformational Learning

1 Dilemma

2 Self-Examination

3 Self Assessment

4 Recognition of discontent

5 Exploration

6 Plan Action

7 Acquire skills

8 New roles

9 Self-Confidence

10 Reintegration

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Phases 1 - 5

1. Disorienting Dilemma

2. Self Examination with feelings of shame, fear, guilt or anger

3. Critical assessment of assumptions

4. Recognition that discontent and process of transformation are shared

5. Exploration of options for new roles, relationships and actions

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6. Planning a course of action

7. Acquiring knowledge and skills to implement plan

8. Temporarily try out new roles

9. Building self-confidence and competence in new roles and relationships

10. Reintegrating of new perspectives into life based on new conditions

Phases 6 - 10

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Important PointsDilemma & discourse

Assessment & examination of assumptions

Look for new ways to act & think

Active reflective & rational discourse takes place

New meanings are discussed and evaluatedSet aside bias, prejudice and personal concernsConsider supporting evidence & arguments Examine alternative perspectives

Teacher and learner play an active role

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SummaryAccording to Mezirow’s theory of Transformational Learning, there are 5 main steps that lead to transformation

There are 10 phases that a person goes in and out of throughout this process

You have had an opportunity to analyze your life as it relates to your own assumptions in life and apply this theory for real meaning.

I hope that you have a greater understanding of the purpose of dilemmas in your life and how our preconceived notions, ideas, thoughts & behaviors are created to form who we really are.

I also hope that you see that there is a way to modify your behaviors and thoughts when these things are not in correlation to what you want to be.

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Thank you for giving me your attention, sharing your knowledge and offering vital feedback today.

Please complete the survey and email it back to me so that I will know how to improve this presentation for future audiences.

Have a great day!

Email: holts3@hotmail.com

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ReferencesBachkirova, T. (2009). Cognitive-developmental approach to coaching: An interview with Robert Kegan. Coaching: An International Journal of Theory, Research and Practice2(1), 10-22

Erickson, D. (2007). A developmental re-forming of the phases of meaning in transformational learning. Adult Education Quarterly, 58(1), 61-80. Retrieved from Academic Search Complete database.

Eriksen, K. (2008). "Interpersonal" clients, students, and supervisees: Translating Robert Kegan. Counselor Education and Supervision, 47(4), 233-248.

Grossman, R. (2009). Structures for facilitating student reflection. College Teaching, 57(1), 15-22.

Tsao,Michael & Kazuya Takahashi, et-al. (2010). Transformative Learning. Retrieved on March 12, 2010 from:http://projects.coe.uga.edu/epltt/index.php?title=Transformative_Learning#Scenario_breakdown_of_the_Mezirow_phases_of_transformation

Woerkom, M. (2004). The concept of critical reflection and its implication for human resource development. Advances for Developing Human Resources. 6(2), 178-192.

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