Learning Task #3 - Who Are the Experts? By Susan Jarosak

Topic: Transformational Learning/Critical Reflection/Evaluation:

There is no one expert on evaluating the effectiveness of transformative learning experiences. The experts listed below are people with whom I work with at the University or authors of books that I can draw from to understand the multiple layers of this subject. The areas that I plan to read more about for my research project are: transformational learning, using critical reflection, and models for evaluating learning experiences (including reflective questioning).

The list of people who are currently writing about transformative learning is growing. I have learned to be a critical consumer of these writings as the definitions of transformational learning vary across disciplines. Many of the more interesting writers today draw from the work of some of the experts listed below. These experts have all contributed significantly to my own thinking and learning in this area, as well as my colleagues. I hope to find more sources in the next few months as well.

LOCAL: Stephen Brookfield, University of St. Thomas, St. Paul Brookfield's books about becoming critical thinkers and teaching are essential reading for anyone working with adults.

Jean King, Evaluation expert, University of Minnesota

Juan Moreno, Diversity and Inclusion Specialist, Extension, St. Paul Campus Juan has studied with Paulo Freire and works with staff to build understanding and capacities around community, and transformational learning and change.

Barbara Warren, Extension Program Leader, Extension - St. Paul Campus Barb's passion is talking about transformational learning for personal and professional growth. She has developed meaningful experiences for introducing critical reflection in work processes and has worked with groups on a national level on developing personal living/working philosophy.

NATIONAL: Chris Argyris, author of many books and articles on professional effectiveness and organizational learning.

Jack Mezirow, author of "Transformative Dimensions of Adult Learning."

Gareth Morgan, author and god according to Sue Damme.

Donald Schon, author of "The Reflective Practitioner" - Writes about professional knowledge and reflection in action.

Margaret Wheatley, author and organizational speaker. Meg's work with transformational leadership and the science and organic ways of working is important for understanding new possibilities for working and learning.

-- Anonymous, March 09, 1999

Answers

Im happy to hear that the list of people who are currently writing about transformative learning is growing. I find myself thinking about some of the very brief comments and conversations about it that occurred at the meeting in October. I look forward to hearing and learning more.

I am going to track down the work of Stephen Brookfield right now. My oldest son will be starting at St.Thomas in the Fall and Id like him to know about it!

You mentioned Juan and Paulo Freire. I know of another man in the twin cities area who works with homeless people who just spent some months in Brazil training with an organization that was begun by Freire. His name is Gene Jax. Do you know him?

Good luck in these pursuits.

-- Anonymous, March 12, 1999