Transformative Learning
Transformative Learning (what it is)
Transformative learning is a form of adult education involving experiences that result in a deep, structural shift in thoughts and feelings, which then inform one's actions. This shift in consciousness can be very subtle or quite extraordinary. Often, it alters our way of making meaning and being in the world. Such a deep-seated shift involves our understanding and our relationships with other people, the natural world, and ourselves.
Transformative Learning In Practice
Whether transformative learning is approached through a conscious rational process or a more intuitive, imaginative or spiritual one, it fosters and develops capacities that invite people to live more meaningfully. It can also provide ways to invite the power of the intellect to join the wisdom of the heart. Expanding and evolving human consciousness supports social transformation that embodies joy, peace and equity for all people.
The Power of Dialogue
di·a·logue: an exchange of ideas and opinions.
Dialogue is a form of communication that teaches people how to listen deeply to themselves and others. It promotes a more authentic exchange of ideas, leading to true learning and change. Engaging in dialogue allows us to take risks and penetrate our own concepts in order to connect with and feel compassion for people whose ideas are different from our own. Dialogue is a commitment to inquiry and to understanding, allowing the rich diversity of our world to manifest more fully.
Building Community
com·mu·ni·ty: a unified body of individuals
Building a sense of community is the foundation that allows people to foster trust with each other. Once trust is established, people are willing to look more deeply within themselves and reveal patterns, concepts, beliefs and behaviors that need to change in order to affect the common good.
Building community means that we are willing to practice respecting and looking out for one another. It allows an individual to listen deeply, to engage in the discovery of learning with others, trusting that others will not use personal weaknesses and vulnerabilities to gain advantage. It fosters the spirit of collaboration, teamwork and the general sense that together, you and I can make a difference. The more individuals engage in building community, the greater the effect at the institutional and enterprise level.
The Alchemy of Reflection
re·flec·tion: consideration of some subject matter,
idea, or purpose.
Basic to the transformative learning model, personal reflection harnesses the power of the mind to bring about unlimited personal transformation. It invites the power of the intellect to join the wisdom of the heart and bring about a deep, structural shift in thoughts and feelings, which then inform one's actions.
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testimonials
Last night I saw my second Shakti Butler film, Mirrors of Privilege: Making Whiteness Visible. The experience of seeing this film, conversing in dyads, and listening to Shakti's facilitated deconstruction of embedded assumptions was outstanding! She is a master of helping people look/listen deeply into themselves to reflect and excavate what we'd rather not see. She brings such compassion and humility to her work.
Marcia Rayene,
Workshop Participant
