Understanding and Promoting Transformative Learning: A Guide for Educators of Adults

by Patricia Cranton

In the second edition of her landmark book, Understanding and Promoting Transformative Learning, Patricia Cranton helps translate theory to practice and guides readers through the many and varied new developments in transformative learning that have emerged in the decade since publication of the first edition. As in the first edition, the book explains the transformative learning theory, describes the process from the learner’s perspective, explores individual differences in transformative learning, presents strategies for fostering transformative learning, and discusses how adult educators themselves are transformative learners. The second edition of this important book draws on the most recent scholarship in adult education and contains information about new theoretical developments including the role of imagination and spirituality in transformation, the importance of affect in the process, the idea of connected knowing, contributions from critical theory, and a holistic model of transformative learning.  

Genres: Education, Nonfiction

240 pages, Hardcover

First published October 4, 1994

Reviews

[Aaron Guzzwell · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was a textbook for a course on transformative learning. I found it very accessible and not overly academic, and felt that the author struck a great balance between outlining the respective theory and providing examples of how it applies in society and in the reader.

I also found the process of reading the book to be very introspective. It garnered in me a lot of critical self reflection, and I feel I am a better person for having read it.

[Mary · Rating 4 out of 5]

This fit the bill for questions about Mezirow’s theory and practical methodology for promoting transformation. It also expanded on questions of why some adults do not experience transformation even when the conditions are in place.

[Ilana · Rating 5 out of 5]

Even though I was reading this for a thesis, I found myself enjoying the accessible style and confiding way Cranton wrote here. She drew me in and inspired me.

[Stephanie Nelson · Rating 5 out of 5]

If you struggle with Mezirow, she will de-mystify him a lot. Even if you don't, it's still incredibly valuable.

[Nicole · Rating 4 out of 5]

Overall, I enjoyed Cranton's book. She has a readable, accessible style and she does a handy job at integrating her discussion of theory and practice. As an outsider to adult education who finds kinship with transformative learning for many reasons, it's nice to find a primer with both heft and practicality.

[Yeva · Rating 4 out of 5]

I think this book inspired me more than anything has in a long time. It made me think and made me change the way I teach. The book is interesting and informative, and still it contains great depth and wisdom. For anyone who works with adult learners, I want to say, "Find this book! It is fascinating."

[Julie · Rating 3 out of 5]

Good overview of the theory - would have liked to see more examples and ideas for implementation.
Wish there was a book specifically about using this idea in health education.

[Kyle · Rating 5 out of 5]

Easy to follow book by Prof. Cranton. She brings Dr. Mezirow's teaching to a new audience and makes it accesssible.

[Penny · Rating 2 out of 5]

A required reading for an unfortunate choice of courses on my part. This is a long repetitive book that I will endeavor to forget as soon as this blasted course is over.