Transformative Teaching: Empowering Future Educators

Education is constantly evolving, shaped by a world that requires students to think critically, adapt quickly, and navigate complex challenges. That is where transformational teaching makes an impact.

Transformational teaching goes beyond traditional instruction, empowering students to develop the skills they need to succeed in this ever-changing landscape. Explore how educators can facilitate transformative teaching to inspire deeper learning and cultivate personal growth.

What is Transformative Teaching

First introduced by Professor Jack Mezirow in the mid-1970s, transformative teaching aims to shift not just what students learn but how they learn.¹

In a transformative classroom, students challenge:

• Their personal points of view 
• What they believe about themselves and their abilities
• Perspectives about the world and society
• The foundations of knowledge and how it is developed

This approach emphasizes that knowledge is built through experiences like critical self-reflection and collaboration. But what does it look like beyond theory?

What is an Example of Transformative Learning?

A professor presents conflicting historical accounts, challenging students to rethink the past and its impact on the present. As they debate, research, and reflect, they realize facts and perspectives shape history.

This shift in understanding is transformative learning in action: Education moves beyond memorization to spark a newfound ability to question and interpret the world.

Core Principles of Transformative Teaching

At the heart of transformative teaching are core principles that bring this approach to life:²

Student-Centered Learning

Transformative teaching shifts focus from the instructor to the student. To achieve this, transformative teaching:

• Engages students through discussions and hands-on activities
• Encourages collaborative projects through teamwork and communication
• Fosters curiosity by allowing students to ask questions and investigate solutions

For aspiring educators, our California Teaching Credential Programs emphasize student-centered strategies, equipping teachers with the skills to create engaging learning environments that inspire active participation.

Critical Reflection

Critical reflection fosters a more profound understanding of course materials by challenging students to:

• Examine their beliefs and experiences 
• Explore different viewpoints
• Connect new ideas to their perspectives
• Share insights and defy assumptions

Engaging in activities like journaling, class discussions, case studies, and self-assessments can facilitate this reflective thinking. This skill set is particularly important for those navigating their first-year special education teacher experience, as adapting to diverse learning needs requires ongoing self-assessment and flexibility.

Authentic Assessment

Traditional tests often measure memorization skills. Instead, authentic assessments allow students to develop practical skills to evaluate their progress and identify areas for improvement.

Teachers can measure transformational learning through:

• Project-based assessments
• Problem-solving real-world scenarios
• Portfolio development 
• Presentations and debates

Teachers pursuing credentials such as the Multiple Subject Teaching Credential benefit from integrating these tools into curricula as this helps their students take ownership of their progress. It:

• Allows students to demonstrate knowledge through hands-on projects
• Encourages problem-solving by applying concepts to practical challenges
• Showcases achievement over time through collected work

Educators pursuing advanced qualifications, such as exploring the benefits of an EdS degree, often find that transformative teaching strategies align with real-world applications, making learning more impactful.

Strategies for Implementing Transformative Teaching

Bringing transformative teaching to life requires intentional strategies that actively engage students and foster deep learning. Consider key techniques such as:

Creating a Safe Learning Environment

A supportive classroom is essential for transformative learning. When students feel valued, they are more willing to engage, take risks, and share ideas.  These best practices help create a nurturing learning environment:

• Fostering discussions where all perspectives are welcomed
• Establishing guidelines that promote respect and inclusivity 
• Acknowledging diverse viewpoints to build confidence and trust

Encouraging Active Participation

Students learn best when they are actively engaged rather than passively absorbing information.⁴ Active participation comes alive in the classroom when educators:

• Encourage students to voice opinions, challenge ideas, and think critically
• Use role-playing or problem-solving tasks to deepen understanding
• Allow students to take charge through presentations and peer teaching

Additionally, interactive technology like virtual simulations, gamified learning, and digital collaboration platforms can enhance participation and cater to different learning styles.

Facilitating Collaborative Learning

To ensure collaborative learning is productive and meaningful:

• Rotate group members and vary team sizes to promote adaptability and inclusivity
• Assign tasks within groups to ensure accountability and balanced participation
• Challenge students with real-world scenarios that require collective brainstorming

Transformative Learning in Action: Case Studies

From classrooms that challenge perspectives to programs that redefine engagement, these case studies showcase how innovative teaching strategies can inspire intellectual and personal growth:

Example 1: Integrating Service Learning

In a sociology course, students partner with local organizations to address food insecurity. They research root causes, organize donation drives, and work directly with families in need.

Through these hands-on experiences, students connect theory with action, turning academic lessons into lifelong impact.

Example 2: Utilizing Problem-Based Learning

In a classroom buzzing with energy, students gather around a whiteboard filled with ideas, theories, and possible solutions. Their challenge? Designing a sustainable water filtration system for a community facing a clean water crisis.

By refining their approach with each iteration, problem-based learning experience transforms students into active problem-solvers.

Challenges and Considerations in Transformative Teaching

While transformative teaching has the power to reshape education, implementing it comes with its own set of challenges. These can include:⁵

Navigating Resistance to Change

To help students adjust to transformative teaching tactics, educators can:

• Introduce transformative practices in small steps to build confidence
• Encourage students to embrace challenges as opportunities for learning
• Offer guidance and feedback as students adapt

Balancing Curriculum Requirements

Incorporating transformative teaching methods while meeting standardized curricula may require creativity and strategic planning, such as:

• Embedding active learning in core lessons
• Connecting mandated content to practical, hands-on experiences
• Allowing students to explore concepts through inquiry-based projects

Applying Transformative Learning Beyond the Classroom

The impact of transformative learning extends beyond academic settings, shaping how students approach personal growth, career development, and social change. By applying these strategies outside of school, students can:

• Use critical thinking to solve real-world problems
• Adapt to change in professional and personal environments
• Engage in lifelong learning to stay effective in evolving industries

Helping students see education as an ongoing process reinforces the goal of transformative teaching: to prepare them for success in an ever-changing world.

Embracing Transformative Teaching for a Better Future

By shifting from passive instruction to active learning, transformative teaching creates environments where students develop evergreen skills for success. As you reflect on your teaching philosophy, consider how transformative approaches can inspire lasting impact and deeper connections in your classroom.

At Alliant International University, our teaching credential programs equip future educators with tools and strategies to lead impactful, student-centered learning experiences. Explore our programs today to take the next step in shaping the future of education—one inspired student at a time.

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Sources: 

1. Adnan Mughul. “EDSeries: Transformative Learning Theory by Jack Mezirow.” Linkedin. August 12, 2024. https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/1-edseries-transformative-learning-theor…. Accessed March 11, 2025.
2. George M Slavich. “Transformational Teaching: Theoretical Underpinnings, Basic Principles, and Core Methods.” National Library of Medicine. July 24, 2012. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC3498956/. Accessed March 11, 2025.
3. Alicia Burns. “Building Trust with Students—Even Before Class Starts.” Harvard Business Publishing. January 7, 2022. https://hbsp.harvard.edu/inspiring-minds/building-trust-with-students-e…. Accessed March 11, 2025.
4. Lara Nelson. “Effective Classroom Engagement Strategies: Active Learning and Participation.” Air & Space Forces Association. March 8, 2025. https://afaeducation.org/blog/effective-classroom-engagement-strategies…. Accessed March 8, 2025. 
5. Maëlys de Rudder - Tanović. “Embracing Educational Transformation: Challenges for teachers.” Linkedin. November 1, 2023. https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/embracing-educational-transformation-cha…. Accessed March 11, 2025.