Learning to be through migration: Transformation learning and the role of learning communities

Global migration is increasing to unprecedented levels, especially from non-OECD to OECD countries. One of the new challenges for lifelong learning is that migrant qualifications and experiences are not recognised easily across different national systems. This article draws on an empirical study from Australia to show how adults informal learning can support skilled migrants career adaptability and employment. The findings from this qualitative research show how migrants participation in social networks and learning communities, through both paid and voluntary work, leads to transformation learning and settlement. But learning to adapt to new contexts requires emotional work. When migrants hold multiple identities, transformation learning has negative sides. These findings show a continuing need for adult educators to support informal learning in workplaces and communities to encourage culturally diverse groups to learn to live and work together.