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The literature on transformative learning theory and the literature on cross-cultural adaptation were analyzed to identify links between both bodies of literature. The notion of an unexpected phenomenon that influences individuals residing in an unfamiliar culture was shown to be a common thread linking the two bodies of literature. Transformative learning theory called this phenomenon a trigger event, whereas cross-cultural adaptation theory called it culture shock. Eight studies combining both fields were identified. The eight studies differed from one another from the following standpoints: (1) their purpose; (2) the need for the study; (3) the criteria used to select participants; (4) their methodology, and (5) the length of the sojourn in the host culture. The eight studies shared several important similarities as follows: (1) they all referred to disorienting dilemmas that sparked a perspective transformation; (2) the use of nonreflective thinking or reflective thinking was pertinent to each study; (3) they all indicated that cross-cultural learning involved some aspect of transformation; and (4) they all discussed the role of supporting relationships within the context of transformative learning theory. The importance of identifying other theories and bodies of literature with relevance to transformative learning theory was emphasized. (20 references) (MN)

1Boy Crusoe

By Allan Eric

Also published as" A Yankee Crusoe" . A 15 year old hard working and studious farm boy finds the lure of adventure on the seas as a merchant seaman more than he can resist. This is his story. " I was born in a little town in the State of Maine, near the close of the Civil War. My boyhood life did not differ materially from that of the average farmer's son in the remote country districts of New England--except, perhaps, that I read more and thought more. Hard work on the rugged soil, two terms each year in the little yellow country schoolhouse, a day's fishing now and then filled the early years of my life full to over-flowing. " What he gets is enough excitement and adventure to overflow his wildest dreams. How he experiences disaster and uses his wits and knowledge to overcome every problem makes for a great read. - Summary by Phil Chenevert