Transformative learning strategies in health education: Health Literacy and Information Discernment among tertiary students
Year: 2026
Type: article
Study design: Clinical Trial
Abstract: This study evaluated the impact of transformative learning strategies on the health literacy and information discernment of tertiary students at North Eastern Mindanao State University (NEMSU) – Cantilan Campus. While conventional health education often focuses on the passive transmission of factual knowledge, this research explored the effectiveness of pedagogical strategies grounded in Mezirow’s Transformative Learning Theory (TLT), which emphasize critical reflection and the deconstruction of personal health assumptions. A quasi-experimental matching pretest-posttest control group design was implemented, involving 200 participants divided into experimental and control cohorts. The experimental group utilized reflective journals, collaborative case studies, and thematic health modules, while the control group received traditional didactic instruction. Data were gathered through a validated 50-item instrument designed to measure health knowledge and reflective insight. Findings revealed that the experimental group’s mean scores improved from 22.10 (SD=4.12) to 37.70 (SD=3.45), whereas the control group’s scores increased from 21.50 (SD=4.30) to 32.10 (SD=4.05). Statistical analysis, including an independent samples t-test (p=0.037) and a normalized gain (N-gain) test (t=5.894, p < 0.001), indicated a statistically significant difference in learning outcomes between the two groups with a large effect size (d =1.45). Observations from student journals further suggested an increased capacity for the critical evaluation of health information. These results indicate that integrating reflective teaching practices into the curriculum can significantly enhance health literacy and analytical discernment skills among tertiary students. This study aligns with Sustainable Development Goals 3 (Good Health and Well-Being), 4 (Quality Education), and 10 (Reduced Inequalities), suggesting that transformative pedagogical approaches provide a viable framework for addressing contemporary health literacy challenges in a university setting.
Institution: North Eastern Mindanao State University
Language: English
Subfield: General Health Professions
Field: Health Professions
Domain: Health Sciences
Open Access status: diamond
OpenAlex ID: W7208825508