Abstract
Systems thinking offers an in-depth perspective on processes of change and transformation. As a unique way of comprehending and conceptualizing growth and change, it focuses on the relational nature of those processes. Transformative learning as an approach to teaching based on promoting change is concerned with the process of transforming one’s relation to oneself and to the world. The purpose of this chapter is to explore systems thinking within and beyond Transformative Learning Theory and to foster theory development between tradition and innovation. The chapter explores (1) the embeddedness of systems thinking within Transformative Learning Theory; (2) outlines core concepts of systems thinking regarding the question of how to comprehend and conceptualize change and transformation; and, (3) fosters theory development between tradition and innovation by expanding Transformative Learning Theory through systems thinking.
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Eschenbacher, S. (2019). Theory Development Between Tradition and Innovation: Exploring Systems Thinking Within and Beyond Transformative Learning Theory. In: Fleming, T., Kokkos, A., Finnegan, F. (eds) European Perspectives on Transformation Theory. Palgrave Macmillan, Cham. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-030-19159-7_6
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