Learning about learning : a catalyst for perspective transformation

Non-traditional avenues to higher education have been offered in Australia for over twenty years and attract students from a wide range of backgrounds. These avenues include preparatory programs. Based on the preliminary findings from research conducted with nine participants enrolled in a pre-university preparatory program, this paper illustrates how the uncovering of individual learning styles can act as a powerful catalyst in helping students change their perceptions of themselves as learners. Cranton's (2002) facets of transformation have been used as a framework to support the notion of perspective transformation having occurred. Initial data analysis findings suggest that in gaining a greater understanding of personal limitations to their learning, juxtaposed with the recognition and appreciation of individual learning strategies that do work, students can revise the perspective they have about what it means be to a 'good student' or a 'good learner'. With the revelation of this new-found knowledge, they become more confident as learners and cast off previous perspectives of self as a 'failed learner'.