Transformative Learning


Transformative learning is simply a learning process of learning from ones experiences.  An example of transformational learning that I experienced is being an adult learner.  Growing up I always thought of a college student as an individual who left high school and went directly to college.  I didn’t do that.  I joined the military and didn’t start college till I was 23.  This made me change the way that I looked at college students.  I was now the “old” student sitting in class.  I found myself constantly looking around and reflecting back on my own experiences.  I feel starting college later made me a better student.  I was able to use life lessons, and experiences to relate to our learning. 
 
At first I felt out of place. I gravitated towards other veteran students because we had something in common.  I will humbly say I often stereotyped other students.  It was hard for me to sit next to the 19 year old kid who just left high school and didn’t care to learn.  I looked at them as if they were not even worthy of sitting in the class.  As I continued on with college, I focused less on the students who didn’t care and more on bringing my life experiences to the learning environment.  This allowed me really get in touch with transformative learning.  I became less judgmental and more open to learning in general.  Looking back, I am glad I started college later.  It allowed me to grow up and realize the true importance of education.  

​Back to Enhancing The Fire Service