Thread #1

What did you learn about the theories to which you were not assigned?

I learned the following about the Transformative Learning Theory:

* Banking education occurs when the teacher makes educational deposits to the students. However, problem-posed education occurs when the teacher and student learn together (Friere)

* Adults formulate ideas from habits of the mind or various points of view. Learning is achieved when "meaning schemes" are constructed (Meirow)

* For this learning to occur there must be trust, friendship, and support for the student in the learning environment

* Learning can be holistic and intuitive and can be assisted by a mentor/guide (Daloz & Boyd)

* This type of learning requires the whole person (cross-cultural, spiritually & culturally, community based and environmental levels) Tisdell

* The theory is sometimes reviewed as flawed because of its lack of understanding of the effects of racism, sexism, and other emotional influences

I learned the following about the Experiential Learning Theory:

* The adult learning experience includes the past and future

* Non reflective learning is defined as remembering and repeating an experience, but reflective learning include planning, monitoring, and reflection

*The teacher/mentor must create an open environment in which trust is a tool for problem solving

What similarities and/or differences did you discover among the three theories you examined?

* All theories focus on life experiences

* The theories are derived from and supported by the influence of others (we connect to thrive and learn)

* There are many interpretations on how to make meaning out of the theories each a derivative of the other

* Prior knowledge is the catalyst for building new understandings

What insights did you gain about adult learning through engaging with your colleagues in scholarly and constructive critique around examination of transformative, experiential, and reflective learning theories?

The theories are interconnected with how relationships are formulated and the influence of the relationships

with the persons involved. The start of building and sustaining relationship is reflective of self thoughts and

actions. The theories must be deliberately practiced in order to grow as a adult learning. I am most drawn to

the Vocational, Confessional, and Critical Practices introduced by Usher, Bryant and Johnson (Experiential

Learning Theory) that discuss how are experiences in these areas categorize our experiences and their

usefulness. I can relate to each category with a story of personal and/or professional growth.

Betty Sanders