Jack Mezirow on Transformative Learning

Synonyms

Adult learning theory; Frame of reference; Perspective transformation; Transformational learning

Definition

Transformational, or transformative, learning is an adult learning theory purported by Mezirow in the late 1970s and revised over 30 years. Central to the theory is the argument that adults experience a catalyst that causes them to question their worldview, the disorienting dilemma, which leads to a fundamental change in the way that they view the world. This frame of reference, or schema, is an important part of transformative learning theory as it is the main unit of change. Additionally, the learner engages in critical reflection or critical self-reflection which entails examining the influences around oneself that contribute to a worldview change or examining those influences as they apply to oneself and one’s worldview, respectively. Each frame of reference is comprised of a series of habits of mind, meaning schemes, and meaning perspectives which can lead to a persp...