Shedding light on the underlying forms of transformative learning theory: Introducing three distinct categories of consciousness

This article supports the continued development of second-wave theories of transforma-tive learning by building on the work of Mezirow and Kegan. It examines the limitations of Mezirow’s ideal of critical discourse and presents a case for Scharmer’s account of gen-erative dialogue as a process map and practice for supporting and catalyzing transfor-mative learning in groups. Finally, this article examines how generative dialogue supports transformative shifts in at least three distinct categorical forms of learner’s consciousness: lines, stages, and states