Voice and transformative learning: A study of critical reflection and rational discourse in the transformative learning experience of economically disadvantaged women

This is a Phenomenological study that adds to the understanding of the ways in which a woman's epistemology (Belenky et al., 1986) influences her experience of critical reflection and rational discourse within a transformative learning experience as defined by Mezirow (1991).;Learning and transition programs have been developed to assist women in the transition from welfare to economic self-sufficiency; but little is known about the real impact of these learning experiences on the ability of the woman to make and sustain the change, or about other elements that may interact with the learning experience to enable the transition to take place. It is clear that there is more to the achievement of self-sufficiency than participation in a social welfare program, since some women make the change and others do not. In order to make the "transformation" from welfare to self-sufficiency, a woman in that situation must adopt a new way of thinking about herself and how she sees herself in the world.;This study contributes to transformative learning theory (Mezirow, 1991) by adding to our understanding of the process of reflection and rational discourse within the transformative learning experience. The powerful and dynamic stories of the participants challenge some of the premises that surround the nature of critical reflection and rational discourse by demonstrating that not all women experience these processes in the same way. The evidence demonstrates that a women's epistemology (Belenky et al., 1986) has an influence on how a woman will engage in the act of reflection and rational discourse. The woman's epistemology also influences how the woman chooses to act upon her new learning. The findings also support the relationship between emotions and rational thought by displaying the importance of rational and critical thought in the management of emotions. The study emphasizes the importance of trusted relationships to the process of reflection and discourse. The conclusions emphasize the importance of transformative learning to the strategies employed by women who have successfully made the transition from welfare dependency to economic self-sufficiency.