In search of transformative moments: Blending community building pursuits into lifelong learning experiences

• Authors: Mikulas Pstross , Craig A. Talmage , C. Bjørn Peterson , Richard C. Knopf
• Languages of publication: EN

Abstracts

EN

This article presents an exploration of the relationship between community building and lifelong learning. Using a reflective style, the authors propose that the fusion of community building principles with lifelong learning practice can positively transform educational practice. Seven positive pursuits are highlighted regarding their potential to assist the implementation of community building into lifelong learning programs: (1) asset-based thinking; (2) critical reflection; (3) systems thinking; (4) cognitive vibrancy, (5) inclusiveness; (6) creative expression; and, (7) purpose in life. These pursuits draw upon the power of the community development field to bring about more positive transformative moments for individuals and communities participating in lifelong learning programs. The metaphor of bread making is used to illustrate how such transformative moments occur and why they are meaningful to individuals pursuing lifelong learning.

Keywords

EN

lifelong learning; community building; older adults; transformative learning; positive pursuits

• Publisher: Fundacja Pro Scientia Publica
• Journal: Journal of Education Culture and Society
• Year: 2017
• Volume: 8
• Issue: 1
• Pages: 62-78

Dates

published

2017-07-10

Contributors

author

Mikulas Pstross

• Osher Lifelong Learning Institute at ASU, Arizona State University

author

Craig A. Talmage

• Entrepreneurial StudiesHobart and William Smith Colleges, 300 Pulteney Street, Geneva, NY

author

C. Bjørn Peterson

• Partnership for Community Development Arizona State University, 411 N. Central Avenue, Phoenix, AZ

author

Richard C. Knopf

• Osher Lifelong Learning Institute, Partnership for Community DevelopmentArizona State University, 411 N. Central Avenue, Phoenix, AZ

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Identifiers

DOI

10.15503/jecs20171.62.78