Transformative teaching: Empowering 21st-century learners for global competence

By Gemma A. Grecia

Educators occupy a central role in the development of 21st-century learners, who must acquire life skills to remain competitive on both local and global scales. Consequently, the concept of transformative teaching has emerged, representing a profound realization in pedagogical approaches. Transformative teaching is a nuanced practice firmly rooted in democratic leadership principles. It entails safeguarding the interests of all stakeholders and nurturing equitable educational management, often achieved through collaborative engagement and negotiation within the educational system. To become a transformative teacher, one must be adequately prepared to facilitate learning effectively.

Within the classroom, teachers assume the role of classroom managers. Prior to commencing a lesson, instructors are tasked with motivating their learners through activities designed to capture their attention. This may involve presenting thought-provoking questions that stimulate critical thinking related to the day’s subject matter. Throughout the lesson, teachers are responsible for maintaining a conducive learning environment that sustains learners’ enthusiasm. They should encourage students to engage in reasoned discourse and facilitate the sharing of ideas, leveraging readily available modern technology and internet resources. Transformative teachers exhibit hands-on teaching styles, maintain open-mindedness, and radiate enthusiasm to ensure full student engagement. They may employ educational games related to the topic to make learning enjoyable while also integrating values that provide direction for students’ future lives.

Following the lesson, a crucial phase ensues, during which teachers raise awareness and encourage learners to engage in self-reflection and share insights. This stage enables students to synthesize their newfound knowledge and offer summaries of what they have learned during the discussion. At this juncture, educators assess whether students have applied the requisite skills and competencies beyond the classroom’s confines. It is vital to emphasize that the transformative teacher’s objective extends beyond preparing learners for the future; rather, it centers on positively transforming their lives, fostering well-rounded, productive Filipino citizens.