The following is a brief summary of a research paper on transformative learning which uses More To Life course work as a case study. The Rosenberg scale is a standard tool for measuring shifts in self perception.

Dr K L Peat, Lecturer, University of Durham
Dr D A Wesson, Senior Lecturer, University of Northumbria

This research is a statistical evaluation of a self-esteem enhancement programme developed by Dr. K Bradford Brown in 1987. The research method uses the Rosenberg Scale, a common measure for self-esteem, with qualitative data from participant feedback at the close of the course and interviews with the same participants at monthly intervals after the course.

The following shifts of self perception were reported by participants:

• accepting themselves
• forgiving themselves for past errors
• accepting their fallibility
• increased self-confidence
• feeling stronger
• feeling empowered
• liking themselves
• trusting themselves
• valuing themselves
• being optimistic about the future
• being happier

In summary results show that the course increased average participant self-esteem substantially and significantly, and that this increase was well maintained over a three-month period.