Abstract

This article focuses on examining the parallels between the recent discussion on futures literacy as human capability and the longer tradition of futures education as a means to enhance the individual’s capacity to use the future. Merging these two lines of discussion with transformative educational theory, we proceed to propose a conceptual model for transformative futures learning and a new 21st century futures paradigm for educational institutions. Transformative futures learning, as we define it, is aimed at changing the frames of reference that define how people engage with the future. The model we propose takes a holistic approach to human learning, in which the aim is to develop the individual’s cognitive, motivational and action-oriented faculties of engaging with the future. The article is based on a review and analysis of futures education, transformative learning and futures literacy theories.