#module5

Transformation In Adult Learning And Types of Learning Experiences...

From our readings in module 5, I’ve gleaned how “transformation” in the context of adult learning relates to how individuals critically assess and revise their deeply held beliefs and worldviews. Paulo Freire’s Education for Critical Consciousness (1973) has elucidated the terminology, transformation, as a process that is rooted in learners’ ability to engage with their temporal existence and critically reflect on their social realities. From this, I've gathered that true transformation involves the active integration of one’s experiences meshed together with an active awareness of time—where we are accountable for understanding the past, evaluating the present, and consciously shaping the future. 

Meanwhile, Mezirow’s concept of transformation (2000) differs from Freire’s in the matters concerning critical reflection and the development of a more in-depth understanding of one’s socio-political environment. As Merirow’s “transformation” calls for individuals to challenge their existing frames of reference—which can range from epistemological, ethical, logical, etc.—to make them more adaptable to transformative learning. Comparatively, Mezirow's concept of transformative learning aligns with Freire's in its emphasis on reflection, but it diverges in its focus on personal cognitive transformation and personal empowerment rather than broader socio-political change. 

Whereas, Freire contrasts transformative learning with passive adaption to emphasize that learners must actively integrate knowledge into their lives to achieve true critical consciousness. This type of learning compels individuals to recognize systemic injustices, challenge oppressive structures, and become empowered agents of change, marking a significant departure from traditional, more informative learning experiences, which often focus on acquiring knowledge without fostering critical awareness. In sum, both theorists highlight the critical reflection process, but while Freire emphasizes collective, societal transformation, Mezirow focuses on individual cognitive development and personal empowerment.

A Significant Experience And How it Shaped My Actions Moving Forward

Freire and Mezirow’s conception of “transformative” learning has opened my eyes to new perspectives, more specifically as an aspiring educator it taught me of the importance of transitioning from passive acceptance of societal norms to actively questioning such systems in place. Likewise, inspired by Paulo Freire’s notion of critical consciousness and temporality, both made me rethink of my experiences as not static but part of an ongoing process of becoming.  

This reflection became a disorienting dilemma, echoing Freire’s idea of integration, where I started to critically engage with my reality rather than merely adapting to it. It led me to commit to myself a promise of participating more actively in community-led initiatives than I have been previously, advocating for educational reforms in any means I could, and realizing that empowerment involves not only understanding but also actively transforming one’s circumstances. This proactive engagement aligned with Jack Mezirow’s transformative learning phases, where critical assessment of assumptions, planning new actions, and trying out new roles became essential steps in my journey toward personal and social change.

Moving forward, this event reshaped my commitment to education and social justice. My understanding of both Freire’s and Mezirow’s frameworks deepened my resolve to use education as a tool for empowerment, where learning is not just informative but transformative—helping others, like myself, to actively engage with and reshape their worlds.

Informative Learning VS Transformative Learning And Its Implications

Informative learning, as Freire discusses in Education for Critical Consciousness (1973), refers to gaining knowledge or skills without necessarily altering one’s perspective or challenging pre-existing beliefs. This form of learning is about acquiring information that enables individuals to adapt to their environment, but it may not lead to critical engagement or transformation. In my professional life, I have experienced informative learning when acquiring technical skills, such as when I mastered a software application called Orange Data Mining Tool. While valuable, this learning primarily enhanced my ability to function within the given system without provoking a deeper examination of its structure or purpose.

In contrast, transformative learning, as defined by Mezirow (2000), involves a fundamental shift in one’s worldview through critical reflection, leading to a revision of deeply held beliefs. Freire echoes this with his emphasis on critical consciousness, where individuals not only reflect on their own learning but also on the socio-political forces shaping their reality. In my personal life, transformative learning occurred when I engaged in community work that challenged my assumptions about inequality, which fondly reminded me of the time when I initiated a book donation drive for urban poor children in Tondo. Through critical reflection and dialogue with others, I developed a deeper understanding of systemic issues and began taking action to contribute to social change.

Both forms of learning have played important roles in shaping my personal and professional growth. Informative learning has equipped me with practical skills, while transformative learning has fostered a more critical and engaged perspective, empowering me to actively participate in the transformation of my surroundings. This blend of gaining knowledge and changing perspectives is crucial in fostering both individual and collective progress.

References:

Freire, P. (1973). Society in transition. In P. Freire’s Education for critical consciousness, pp. 3-20. NY: The Seabury Press.

A photo of a woman. The denotative meaning is a woman with patterns on her clothing.

This same photo can hold a connotative meaning of a woman from an African tribe being upset because she is forced to marry.

This street sign of a person crossing serves as an iconic function. The icon of a person walking is used to signal drivers to slow down in the area since people might be walking there.

This map has an indexical function as displays both a letter and a map connecting both to a story about the past. When you read the letter, the viewer is able to discover the meaning of the map.

The sign "Black Lives Matter" has a symbolic meaning as the phrase depicted is connected to a larger movement.

This book cover that reads “The Guest List” with a stormy castle behind it sets the physical scene for the book. When reading the book which takes place in Ireland, the reader can use the cover to imagine the weather and environment of the story. The title lets the reader know that some sort of event or party will most likely center this story.

Use the same piece of design (can be the same photo or a different photo of the same object) and use your caption to describe its connotative meaning. 

This book cover uses dark colors and stormy, mysterious imagery to foreshadow danger and conflict to come in the book. The note under the title which reads “You’d kill to be on it” adds to the spookiness and elusivity of the book. The use of the word “kill” adds another layer of danger to the book, and foreshadows some type of violence or even murder to come in the book. 

Find a piece of design and describe its iconic function (remember icon/index/symbol from the lecture).

The Spartan head in its iconic function is now mostly used for marketing and branding. The Sparty head is easy to shrink and expand, it can be white and stand out against a dark green background, or vice versa. It is on virtually every piece of University property from sticky notes to sweatshirts. The Sparty head is a recognizable icon that has lasted and will last for so many years to come due to its amazing versatility and flexibility in the marketing space.

Find a piece of design and describe its indexical function.

Sparty himself acts as representation for our school. He is at football games, career fairs, and club meetings always showing up with an incredible energy that represents Michigan State’s spirit. Sparty himself is not as versatile and flexible when it comes to being used as a marketing tool because of his small details and intricacy. Shrinking or expanding Sparty to find different materials is less functional and logical than using the Sparty head. 

Find a piece of design and describe its symbolic function.

The structured, bold sans serif “S '' that represents Michigan State in its symbolic form. The “S '' can not only be a symbol for the State, but it can also be a symbol for Sparty himself. This symbol represents Sparta and Spartans without actually being a graphic of a fighting spartan. This “S” is also commonly used on marketing and advertising materials because of its simplicity and ability to fit many different formats, just like the Spartan head. 

Find a piece of design that references a past “style” and in your caption say what you think the design is trying to signify by its reference to that style (think about the Stubb’s BBQ sauce example).

This bar is Irish-themed, hence the name Dublin Square. They use quintessential gaelic-inspired typeface to embody the medieval highland brand. Inside, there is Guinness decor, old Irish sayings all over the place, and an Irish-themed menu. The brand uses hints of green here and there, as well as traditional clan crests and clover motifs to signify the luck of the Irish. Drinking beer and dancing while having a good time is one of the most Irish pastimes, so this bar tries to create a fun-loving atmosphere that starts with its brand typeface and imagery.

1. I chose a picture of a stop sign the decorative meaning of the stop sign is pretty straightforward it signifies a command for drivers to come to a complete halt at the intersection.

2. The stop signs red color and distinctive octagonal shape, connotes authority, control, and the imperative to halt or pause. Beyond that it’s the function to follow rules and of obedience. It evokes feelings of caution and alertness. To remain vigilant.

3. The 3rd picture I chose was a tiny gift bag of two bears and hearts printed on it. I believe it connotes sentiments of love, affection, and warmth. Especially with the heart which is a known icon of love. Overall the design is meant to be gifted to loved ones for birthdays, valentine day, etc.

4. For my 4th picture I chose to take a picture of my sister and I’s sticky phone wallets. They serve as a convenient storage solution for cards and cash. Attaching securely to the back of my phone for easy access to go.

5. For the 5th picture I chose was a close up of the logo of my new balance shoes. The “N” embodies a symbolic meaning to represent the brands identity and values. This is a way to see symbolic function for example I believe everyone when they see the specific “N” everyone can guess it’s from new balance.

This is a tiger eating cereal again. This picture shows that the cereal is chocolate flavored, and the large amount of cereal hints that this product is delicious.

The stars in the picture can clearly tell you where you are currently.

The Nutrition Facts Table can help retrieve nutritional information and content

This logo symbolizes the name of the company and is highly recognizable.

Module 5

Image 1: Charcoal Toothpaste - I chose charcoal toothpaste since there is charcoal in the toothpaste. The ingredients come together to make the product great. The meaning is that it can make your teeth whiter and freshen up your smile. It is supposed to make the user more confident in themselves.

Image 2: Exit - This sign tells the user where to go by the graphic and arrow. It leads them to the direction that they are looking to go. It helps navigate the area easier.

Image 3: Keep away from children label - This is a warning to not let children play or engage with the product which can cause harm.

Image 4: Stop sign - this is one that tells the driver to stop and warns them. The colors and font scream caution and to stop. The red makes it stand out. Also, many people know it by its shape which is an octagon.