Encountering Transformation: Shared Humanity - Lessons in Critical Thinking and Shared Humanity Learning Coach Module Reflections.

Shared Humanity: Lessons in Critical Thinking integrates various learning theories and methodologies to develop conscientious citizenry.

Freire’s educational theory, which connects both personal and social transformation (Merriam et al., 2007:140), emphasises the critical reflection on one’s position in society and the power within (Walter, 1999, p. 35), aiming to view the world holistically, analyse the root causes of injustice and act based upon that.

Paul and Elder (2006) propose that Ruth Paul and Elder's position on thinking about our thinking serves as a way to address bias and prejudice. Our thinking left to itself is biased, distorted, partial, uninformed, or downright prejudiced. If we want to think well, we must understand at least the rudiments of thought, the most basic structures out of which all thinking is made.

Learning may occur in 3 domains, i.e. instrumental, communicative, critical or emancipatory, suggesting “different modes of personal learning and different learning needs” (Mezirow, 1981:4). Emancipatory learning domain refers to personal growth and understanding of oneself, e.g. psychological and cultural assumptions influencing the way one sees and acts in the world (Rogers, 1992:13; Newman, 2000:273). “In this domain, we learn to solve problems by a form of self-reflection that may transform our whole way of thinking and our perspectives.

Experiential Learning (Kolb & Dewey) serves as both a methodology and a philosophy, becoming the vehicle for transformative theory.

There are many times when, due to an emotional attachment to certain topics, I am unable to speak about them. However, I've realised that it is possible to discuss difficult issues and remain objective about them. Being able to discern how I feel and how others feel or perceive topics is something I'm still learning, but this module has helped me speak to people more effectively, even though I'm introverted and struggle to voice certain feelings or thoughts I might have. I enjoyed seeing how this module helped me to put aside some of my own (for lack of a better word) 'awkwardness' and being able to speak to others irrespective of myself. (Learning Coach B, 2023)

I think the one thing that stood out to me was the importance of knowledge, social structures, and cultural sensitivity as principles and practices. I realised that I had knowledge gaps when it came to understanding the different cultures and personalities I encounter on a daily basis. Coming from an area that’s not really multi-diverse, it’s so easy for me to assume or make up my conclusion when it comes to culture and social structures. It made me realise that, for the most part, I had never really given myself the opportunity to seek knowledge about the different cultures and social structures. (Shared Humanity Cohort 4 Participant, 2023)