Transformative learning: Postgraduate students' refections on a community engagement program in South Africa

• Serena Isaacs

  University of the Western Cape

• Jenny Rose

  University of the Western Cape

• Charl Davids

  University of the Western Cape

We explored the promotion of active citizenship through reports of engagement in a rural community program in the Western Cape. Students enrolled in a community psychology postgraduate course participated in this project, during which they made use of reflective journaling to record their individual processes. We used thematic analysis to explore the themes within these journals. Through engagement with the community, students were able to acknowledge and reflect on significant differences between learning in the classroom and in the community. They were also able to identify the qualities needed to work effectively within communities, and began to consider the ideas of active citizenship and community involvement. Eleven students were able to unite on this project, developing both as individuals and psychology students, through their shared experiences. Common themes of questioning existing structures and resource availability are discussed.

1. Serena Isaacs, University of the Western Cape
   Department of Psychology
   
2. Jenny Rose, University of the Western Cape
   Department of Psychology
3. Charl Davids, University of the Western Cape
   Department of Psychology

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