Teachers as transformative educators: Finding a voice through research as transformative learning

We hear so much today about raising standards, improving outcomes, child-centred learning and catering to the individual; but I want to ask the question “what about me?!” where do I fit in? I believe that in order to teach for transformation, we must first address these questions; where do my beliefs and values come from and why do I teach what I teach? I was able to answer these questions through research as transformative learning; I gained radical insight through radical openness and honesty. I ask, is there a hegemony of traditionalism and political opinion in education that prevents teachers from finding their voice in educational research? That prevents us from being open and honest with ourselves and connecting with our students? Research as transformative learning allowed me to critically connect with my experiences as an educator and gave my insights a contributive voice. I believe that only by transforming our thinking, can we learn to truly connect with our students and change the story of education. In this presentation I will 76 ask, how can teacher become researcher? And why must we take charge of the future of education. I will illustrate how a transformation of our own consciousness can pave the way for creative, compassionate and critical learners to shepherd the world into the future