2020 Transformative Learning Conference

Applying Transformative Learning in Teaching

The session supports the application of transformative learning by engaging attendees to explore teaching strategies based on models and neuroscience research that enhance personal, community, and societal well-being. A logic model format that is based on the Theory of Change and uses the Socio-Ecological Framework to facilitate student experiences that enhance decision-making at the individual, work unit, and/or the system levels will be introduced. This logic model increases student focus on organizational, societal, and other contextual issues as one strategy to meet needs of future employers and increase attention regulation, emotion regulation, and cognitive regulation in the learner. Additionally, the application of student activities based on the Integrative Inquiry Model helps students to
address genuine problems in complex settings and involve specific contextualized rather than abstract or generalized knowledge, and allows for the application of neuroscience supporting empathy and compassion while providing skills relevant to future practice. These changes in learning environments are reported to also trigger autonomic nervous system responses in students, such as decreased heart rate, a feeling of calm, and reduced stress and anxiety. Session participants will use the Logic Model to practice the skills defined.