Integrating global citizenship and transformative learning
An explanatory sequential analysis of graduate school curricula
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.32674/mwrehk60Keywords:
Global Citizenship Education, Transformative Learning Theory, Graduate Curriculum, Social Justice, Civic Engagement, Higher EducationAbstract
This study investigates the integration of Global Citizenship Education (GCED) and Transformative Learning Theory (TLT) within the graduate curricula of Romblon State University. Using a sequential explanatory mixed-methods design, the research analyzed survey data from 88 graduate students through descriptive and inferential statistics, followed by qualitative interviews and focus group discussions with students, faculty, and administrators. Results indicate that key transformative learning processes—critical reflection, rational discourse, experiential learning, and perspective transformation—are substantially embedded in the curriculum. These processes contribute to the development of global awareness, social justice orientation, cultural competence, civic engagement, and ethical responsibility among graduate students.
References
Aktas, F., Pitts, K., Richards, J. C., & Silova, I. (2017). Institutionalizing global citizenship: A critical analysis of higher education programs and curricula. Journal of Studies in International Education, 21(1), 65–80. https://doi.org/10.1177/1028315316669815
Al’Abri, K., Al-Ghaithi, B., Al-Ghafri, A., & AlBarashdi, H. (2024). Achieving sustainable development by promoting Global Citizenship Education (GCED): The role of school principals. Globalisation, Societies and Education, 1–14. https://doi.org/10.1080/14767724.2024.2334567
Bartle, E. (2015, March). Experiential learning: An overview. Institute for Teaching and Learning Innovation. https://itali.uq.edu.au/filething/get/1860/Experiential_learning_overview_Final_16_Mar_15.pdf
Braun, V., & Clarke, V. (2006). Using thematic analysis in psychology. Qualitative Research in Psychology, 3(2), 77–101. https://doi.org/10.1191/1478088706qp063oa
Cantor, J. (1997). Experiential learning in higher education: Linking classroom and community (ASHE-ERIC Higher Education Report No. 7). George Washington University, Graduate School of Education and Human Development. http://www.eric.ed.gov/contentdelivery/servlet/ERICServlet?accno=ED404948
Chan, S., Ismail, Z., & Sumintono, B. (2015). Assessing statistical reasoning in descriptive statistics: A qualitative meta-analysis. https://core.ac.uk/download/162015769.pdf
Esther, C. O., & Abdul-Samad, A. (2024). Impact of Social Studies curriculum contents on the achievement of social cohesion: Role of Transformative Learning Theory. International Journal of Research and Innovation in Social Science, 8(3s), 5047–5053. https://doi.org/10.47772/IJRISS.2024.83203
İbrayeva, G., Recepoglu, S., & İbret, B. Ü. (2022). A review of graduate studies on global citizenship. International Journal of Education Technology & Scientific Researches, 7(18).
Massaro, V. R. (2022). Global citizenship development in higher education institutions: A systematic review of the literature. Journal of Global Education Research, 6(1). https://doi.org/10.5038/2577-509X.6.1.1009
Mezirow, J. (1991). Transformative dimensions of adult learning. Jossey-Bass.
Mezirow, J. (1997). Transformative learning: Theory to practice. New Directions for Adult and Continuing Education, 1997(74), 5–12. https://doi.org/10.1002/ace.7401
Myers, J. P. (2016). Charting a democratic course for global citizenship education: Research directions and current challenges. Education Policy Analysis Archives, 24(55). https://doi.org/10.14507/epaa.24.2174
O’Flaherty, J., McCormack, O., Lenihan, R., & Young, A. M. (2025). Critical reflection and global citizenship education: Exploring the views and experiences of teacher educators. Reflective Practice, 26(1), 135–153. https://doi.org/10.1080/14623943.2024.2345678
Quevedo-Padilla, L. B. (2024). Institutional efforts and challenges to boost the internationalization of the curriculum and Global Citizenship Education: Insights of educators. Sinergia Académica, 7(Esp 1), 1–20.
Shek, D., Chau, C., Zhou, K., Chu, C., Chu, K., & Li, A. (2023). Nurturing holistic development of university students: The role of non-cognitive skills. International Journal of Child and Adolescent Health, 16(2), 111–125.
Spronken-Smith, R., Brown, K., & Cameron, C. (2024). Perceptions of graduate attribute development and application in PhD graduates from US and NZ universities. Assessment & Evaluation in Higher Education, 49(1), 86–101. https://doi.org/10.1080/02602938.2023.1234567
UNESCO. (2015). Education 2030: Incheon Declaration and Framework for Action for the implementation of Sustainable Development Goal 4. UNESCO.
Additional Files
Published
Issue
Section
License
Copyright (c) 2026 Dr. Joanne R. Dalisay, Dr. Philip R. Baldera, Dr. Ellaine Joy G. Eusebio, Dr. Kreisler I. Fontamillas, Dr. Aljay Marc C. Patiam

This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-NoDerivatives 4.0 International License.




