Disorientation as a Learning Objective: Applying Transformational Learning Theory in Participatory Action Pedagogy

2020 ◽  
pp. 0739456X2095638
Author(s):  
Barbara Brown Wilson

As the field of planning stretches toward redressing the injustices of past land use patterns through reparative practices, student learning needs to include socio-emotional, as well as technical and intellectual, skill-building. Pedagogy should increase the planner’s ability to recognize systems of oppression and center lived expertise in decision-making processes. Transformational learning theory considers the mechanisms through which place-based learning expands student worldviews through exposure to other ways of knowing. Reflecting on a participatory action course through the analytical lens of transformational learning theory, this paper considers the pedagogical and ethical challenges and opportunities for planning education through collaborative action.

2015 ◽  
Vol 5 (4) ◽  
pp. 383-400 ◽  
Author(s):  
Bethany Alden Rivers ◽  
Alejandro Armellini ◽  
Rachel Maxwell ◽  
Sue Allen ◽  
Chris Durkin

Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to propose a theoretical framework to support the embedding of social innovation education in existing academic programmes. Design/methodology/approach – By adopting Conole et al.’s (2004) methodological approach to reviewing, mapping and modelling learning theory, this study addresses four research questions: how can social innovation education be defined? Which learning theories best support social innovation education? How do such learning theories relate to existing models of learning in higher education? What implications does a social innovation pedagogy have for learning design? Findings – Findings suggest that social innovation education is supported by a praxis that is grounded in critical learning theory, transformational learning theory and epistemological development. By extending Conole et al.’s (2004) model of learning theory, the present study proposes a “zone of pedagogical praxis for social innovation education” that supports learning design on a more critical plane. Research limitations/implications – The proposed model of learning may be of interest to other universities as they work towards stronger thinkers and stronger communities. Practical implications – Using a theory-informed model for learning design nurtures a pedagogical praxis and underpins the development of a practical toolkit for designing social innovation education. Originality/value – The findings of this study will provide a point of reference for other higher education institutions as they look for guidance on embedding principles of social innovation into their curricula.


2021 ◽  
Vol 3 (1) ◽  
pp. 46-51
Author(s):  
Joel Murphy

There has been an increased emphasis for professionals within the field of student affairs to focus on programming that will engage and help support increasingly diverse student populations on (Odağ, Wallin, & Kedzior, 2016). Bowman (2012) writes: “Many entering college students have had limited opportunities for meaningful interactions and friendships across difference, which further suggests the unique role of college in promoting diversity-related growth” (p.1). Missing within the literature are examples of pedagogical strategies for developing programs that can positively affect inclusivity on post-secondary institution (PSI) campuses. This paper identifies transformational learning theory as a specific pedagogical strategy to help student affairs professionals better support informal first-year programming. Developing innovative theory-guided programming is necessary to encourage learning and development (Baldwin et al., 2004).


Author(s):  
Andrew C. Willford

In 2006, dejected members of the Bukit Jalil Estate community faced eviction from their homes in Kuala Lumpur where they had lived for generations. City officials classified plantation residents as squatters and questioned any right they might have to stay. This story epitomizes the dilemma faced by Malaysian Tamils in recent years as they confront the collapse of the plantation system where they have lived and worked for generations. Foreign workers have been brought in to replace Tamil workers to cut labor costs. As the new migrant workers do not bring their whole families with them, the community structures need no longer be sustained, allowing more land to be converted to mechanized palm oil production or lucrative housing developments. Tamils find themselves increasingly resentful of the fact that lands that were developed and populated by their ancestors are now claimed by Malays as their own; and that the land use patterns in these new townships, are increasingly hostile to the most symbolic vestiges of the Tamil and Hindu presence, the temples. This book is about the fast-approaching end to a way of life, and addresses critical issues in the study of race and ethnicity. It demonstrates which strategies have been most “successful” in navigating the legal and political system of ethnic entitlement and compensation. It shows how, through a variety of strategies, Tamils try to access justice beyond the law-sometimes by using the law, and sometimes by turning to religious symbols and rituals in the murky space between law and justice.


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