ERIC Number: ED663976
Record Type: Non-Journal
Publication Date: 2024
Pages: 170
Abstractor: As Provided
ISBN: 979-8-3465-1132-8
ISSN: N/A
EISSN: N/A
Exploring the Transformative Experiences of Students in Christian University Courses: A Narrative Inquiry
P. C. Walker
ProQuest LLC, Ph.D. Dissertation, Saybrook University
This narrative inquiry study explored the transformational learning experiences of students who attended Christian colleges and universities in the United States. The problem addressed in this study is the need for Christian colleges and universities to identify what constitutes and contributes to the transformative experiences conveyed by students. The study was shaped by the primary research question: What are students' experiences of transformation in worldview or values-beliefs in courses at Christian universities? Auxiliary questions were: What role do professors have in a transformative experience? What role do classmates have in an individual's transformative experience? What assignments or course activities contribute to transformative experiences? What internal reflections, tensions, and emotions emerge in transformative experiences? Utilizing narrative inquiry, this study used semi-structured interviews to examine the roles of students, professors, classmates, and assignments in creating transformative classroom learning experiences. Ten students who attended a Christian college or university in the last 5 years were participants. The theoretical foundation for this study was current research linked to transformative learning, Christian higher education, and learner-centered education. The central themes emerging from the study were the importance of the vulnerability of students and professors, small and personal connections between students and faculty, carefully navigating the tensions of shame and guilt, the centrality of shared stories, and the importance of reflection and discussion to support the transformation of students. The analysis of data for this study followed an interpretive and constructivist approach, with a need to understand the participant experience. This study supports and affirms the work of faculty in Christian higher education. The findings provide unique recommendations for higher education instruction, particularly for faculty at Christian higher education. [The dissertation citations contained here are published with the permission of ProQuest LLC. Further reproduction is prohibited without permission. Copies of dissertations may be obtained by Telephone (800) 1-800-521-0600. Web page: http://bibliotheek.ehb.be:2222/en-US/products/dissertations/individuals.shtml.]
Descriptors: Religious Colleges, Christianity, Transformative Learning, College Students, Student Experience, World Views, Values Education, College Faculty, Teacher Role, Student Role, Assignments, Learning Activities, Reflection, Psychological Patterns, Student Centered Learning
ProQuest LLC. 789 East Eisenhower Parkway, P.O. Box 1346, Ann Arbor, MI 48106. Tel: 800-521-0600; Web site: http://bibliotheek.ehb.be:2222/en-US/products/dissertations/individuals.shtml
Publication Type: Dissertations/Theses - Doctoral Dissertations
Education Level: Higher Education; Postsecondary Education
Audience: N/A
Language: English
Sponsor: N/A
Authoring Institution: N/A
Grant or Contract Numbers: N/A