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Abstract

In this literature review, 10 empirical qualitative research articles published since 1999 are analyzed to better understand how researchers use Jack Mezirow's transformative learning theory as a functional tool for measuring the transformative process. The studies investigate higher education and/or professional education settings. This analysis reveals the following themes: lack of robust results on reporting transformation in highly structured transformational contexts, need for longitudinal design, difficulty in capturing and analyzing participant self-reports, and need for multiple data pathways to verify transformation. The author also suggests that the focus of transformative learning research move from assessing whether transformation has occurred and toward analyzing the transformative process for how it can inform curricular decision making and instruction.

Keywords

adult learning literature review theory of conscious development transformative education transformative learning theory

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References

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Brown, K.M. (2005). Transformative adult learning strategies: Assessing the impact on pre-service administrators' beliefs. Educational Considerations, 32, 18-26.

Cranton, P. , & Carusetta, E. (2004). Developing authenticity as a transformative process . Journal of Transformative Education, 2, 276-293.

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11.

King, K.P. (2002). Keeping pace with technology: Educational technology that transforms. Cresskill, NJ: Hampton.

12.

Kitchenham, A. (2006). Teachers and technology: A transformative journey . Journal of Transformative Education, 4, 202-225.

13.

Merriam, S.B. (1998). Qualitative research and case study applications in education. San Francisco: Jossey-Bass .

14.

Mezirow, J. (1978). Education for perspective transformation: Women's re-entry programs in community colleges. New York: Teachers College Press.

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Mezirow, J. (1991). Transformative dimensions of adult learning. New York: John Wiley.

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Stansberry, S.L. , & Kymes, A.D. (2007). Transformative learning through "teaching with technology" electronic portfolios. Journal of Adolescent & Adult Literacy, 50(6), 488-496.

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Taylor, E.W. (1997). Building upon the theoretical debate: A critical review of the empirical studies of Mezirow's transformative learning theory . Adult Education Quarterly, 48(1), 34-60.

20.

Taylor, E.W. (2001). Transformative learning theory: A neurobiological perspective of the role of emotions and unconscious ways of knowing. International Journal of Lifelong Education, 20(3), 218-236.

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Taylor, E.W. (2003). Attending graduate school in adult education and the impact on teaching beliefs: A longitudinal study. Journal of Transformative Education, 1, 349-366.

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Grabbing Hold of a Moving Target

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