In the 2013 article, “Transformative Learning Theory and Spirituality: A Whole-Person Approach,” Piercy indicates that the learning process of adults can be understood by addressing the biblical understanding and the transformative approach to man’s nature. Adults can learn through the realms of human nature: physical, spiritual, emotional, and cognitive. Engagement in critical reflection and reflexive discourse are vital to enhancing education. The paper aims to identify the relationship between adult learning and aspects of spirituality with the help of the transformative learning theory.
Integrating a biblical understanding of human nature of man as they are unique from other animals is impactful in realizing adult learning. According to Piercy (2013), adult education can be understood using Mezirow’s learning model, founded on three dimensions cognitive, emotional, and environmental. Spirituality is essential to adult growth as it provides consistency and explains life’s journey. The central aspect of spirituality in the learning process is the focus on emotions. In attaining education, the emotional dimension is crucial as it interrelates with reason, thus facilitating learning. Trusting relationships can enhance the attainment of knowledge, especially after the expression of empathy. The principles for establishing learner-centered education include dialogue, respect, and accountability. Components of spiritual development include a strong sense of individualism, caring for others, and constructing meaning. Journal writing and narrative can be used to educate adult students. A thriving teaching environment is where learners can express themselves without fear. Adult education can be facilitated through three informal strategies: mentoring, self-directed learning, and dialogue.
Piercy’s (2013) article’s strengths include the proper analysis of spirituality, making it easy to relate it to the learning theories. All paraphrased work is appropriately cited, with references provided. The work lacked any qualitative or quantitative research method to assert the claims presented. Information presented in the article is critical in understanding adult education from worldly and biblical perspectives. It guides educators in facilitating old schooling and understanding the factors that make the process easy.
Reference
Piercy, G. (2013). Transformative learning theory and spirituality: A whole-person approach. Journal of Instructional Research, 2(2013), 30–42. Web.