Case Study of a Significant Learning Experience Involving Addiction
Transformative learning theory, as proposed by Jack Mezirow (1991, 2000), is a useful framework for analyzing the significant learning experiences of adults because it recognizes the importance of the emancipatory process of critical reflection for the purpose of transformative change. The purpose of this paper is to analyze one of my own significant learning experiences (SLE) in order to demonstrate the applicability of Meziow’s theory, strengths and limitations. The SLE that I have chosen is my understanding of addictions. This is significant to me because I currently work as a mental health and addictions nurse. As I began to reflect on my transformative learning process I began to realize that my understanding of substance use has heavily influenced my meaning perspective (habits of expectation that filter perception and cognition) of addiction (Mezirow, 1991). In this case study I will outline the key transition points of my SLE that began in my adolescence and contin