Role of Transformative Learning Interventions in Developing Conducive Environment for Female Adult Learners in Higher Education

Abstract

The increasing number of female adult learners required a need for a deeper and more additional background related consideration on the effects contributing toward educational achievement for the learners who return to study. The aim of this study is to define the role of Transformative Interventions in developing Conducive Learning Environment for female adult learners in higher education with the consideration on hindrances faced, as they re-engage and continuing their post-compulsory educational passage. Qualitative approach with explanatory case study design has been employed to conduct this study. Semi-structured open-ended interviews conducted for 16 purposefully selected female participants. Two private and two public universities were selected from which adult working students and experienced of having transformative learning interventions during their course. Moreover, the experiences and responses highlighted the needs, hindrances and expectations of the adult students in higher education. They identified reflective activities including article review and reflective writing, faculty support, seminars, educational conferences, presentations, projects on real life issues, discussion and introducing demanding courses are the important transformative learning interventions for developing Conducive environment for adults. The major factor responsible for developing Conducive environment was experiences and exposure by the adult learner and providing opportunities through the Andragogy and expertise. Notes on interviews and reflection journals were utilized to triangulate data to support these methods. Data analysis and results of the study indicated that participants experienced transformative learning interventions through both educational and non-educational related activities held in university by Higher Education.