Transformative Learning as Impact in Social Innovation

Abstract

Measurable impact is an often expected and required outcome of innovation programs, and yet is particularly challenging for trying to understand social impact. The overt focus on economic value often overshadows other, more impactful social outcomes, such as learning, that emerge as a result of the work. In this paper, we use transformative learning theory (TLT) to explore the types and ranges of transformative learning that take place in design and social innovation (D&SI). TLT is an adult learning theory in which critical reflection is used to challenge the learner's beliefs and assumptions and can be particularly useful in helping us understand the perspective shifts important for participants of D&SI initiatives. Our aim is to reorient the discussion on D&SI impact by focusing on transformative learning as a form of social value. Using examples of and reflections on projects sited in various cultural contexts (Japan, UK, and Europe), this paper draws attention to the significance of transformative learning in contributing to social change and demonstrates the potential for addressing, framing, and communicating learning as one of the many important social impacts that occur in D&SI initiatives.

Keywords:

• transformative learning
• design and social innovation
• social impact
• social value

Acknowledgements

We would like to thank STBY, Re:public, and their collaborators for sharing examples of their design practice. We are also grateful to the reviewers and editors for their assistance in the paper.

Disclosure Statement

No potential conflict of interest was reported by the authors.

Notes

1 Read a description and the guidance of the Act at https://tinyurl.com/y8g4fanl

2 Learn more at www.stby.eu

3 Re:public uses the term “think-and-do tank” as a play on the term “think tank” to highlight their action-oriented approach compared to other think tank organizations traditionally focused on research and advocacy.

4 For further details of the project, please refer to Ichikawa, Tamura, and Akama’s (2013) paper.

Additional information

Notes on contributors

Joyce Yee

Joyce Yee is an Associate Professor at Northumbria University’s School of Design. She is the co-founder of the Design and Social Innovation in Asia-Pacific (DESIAP) network with Yoko Akama. Joyce’s research focuses on the role, value, and impact of design in organizational contexts.[email protected]

Bas Raijmakers

Bas Raijmakers is co-founder and Creative Director of STBY in London and Amsterdam. Bas has a background in cultural studies, the internet industry, and interaction design. He is also a Reader in Strategic Creativity at Design Academy Eindhoven.[email protected]

Fumiko Ichikawa

Fumiko Ichikawa is the co-founder and Managing Director of Re:public in Japan. Together with national and regional governments, companies of all sizes, and educational institutes, her mission is to empower individuals and develop sustainable innovation platforms for a better future.[email protected]