Unleashing the transformative potential of learning for individuals, organisations and society
Research area overview
Research on education and learning has evolved dramatically. Still, there are systemic challenges to enabling learning and there are gaps in how we develop capabilities for future change-makers who need a better systems view of how their environment works. Transformative learning is as much about the learner being transformed as it is about them transforming the system around them.
For our research, we adopt a systems view of learning, including the process of co-production of new knowledge with others, and designing learning environments that provide the safety to such exploration and learn (including from failures).
Project and theme highlights
- ‘Transdisciplinary (TD) Capabilities’ – exploring future-oriented capabilities and their impact.
- ‘Transdisciplinary Systematic Review’ – capturing the global use, evolution and impact of transdisciplinary methodologies.
- ‘Democratising AI in Education’ – exploring ways to democratise policy governing the use and evolution of artificial intelligence in education environments.
- ‘Governing AI in Education’ – navigating ways to ensure equity in how artificial intelligence is utilised, governed and managed across education settings.
Other research streams and topic areas in this theme include:
Innovative Pedagogies and Curriculum Design for Transdisciplinary Learning
This research area explores how education can be reimagined to prepare learners for complex, real-world challenges. It focuses on designing inclusive, flexible, and future-focused teaching methods and curricula that break down traditional disciplinary boundaries. By integrating diverse ways of knowing and doing, the work supports collaborative problem-solving, critical thinking, and lifelong learning across sectors and communities.
Embedding Futures Thinking in Learning Organisations
This research area investigates how organisations can build long-term resilience and adaptability by integrating futures thinking into their learning cultures. It explores tools, mindsets, and practices that help individuals and teams anticipate change, imagine alternative futures, and make strategic decisions in complex environments. The goal is to empower learning organisations to move beyond short-term problem-solving and actively shape the future they want to create.
Co-Designing for Learning with Technologies
This research area explores how educators, learners, and technology experts can collaboratively design digital tools and environments that enhance learning. It focuses on participatory approaches that centre user experience, equity, and adaptability – ensuring that technology supports meaningful, inclusive, and future-ready education. The work bridges pedagogy, design thinking, and innovation to create learning experiences that are both human-centred and tech-enabled.
Understanding How People Use Data and Evidence
This research area explores how individuals and organisations interpret, trust, and apply data and evidence in decision-making. It investigates the social, cultural, and cognitive factors that shape how information is understood and acted upon – whether in policy, education, media, or everyday life. The goal is to improve data literacy, foster critical thinking, and support more informed, inclusive, and transparent decisions across sectors.
The Role of Technology in Building Learning Dialogue
This research area explores how digital tools, platforms, devices and other assets can support deeper, more meaningful dialogue for building better learning environments and fostering better learning outcomes. It investigates how technology can foster collaboration, reflection, and shared understanding among learners and educators. By combining pedagogical insight with technological innovation, the work aims to create inclusive, interactive spaces where dialogue drives learning and builds stronger educational communities.
Applying Data and Analytics to Study Learning Processes
This research area investigates how data and learning analytics can reveal patterns, behaviours, and outcomes in a variety of environments, including educational settings. By analysing how learners interact with content, peers, and technology, the work supports more personalised, effective, and equitable learning experiences. It combines insights from education, data science, and cognitive psychology to inform teaching strategies, curriculum design, policy and more.
Collaboration
Some researchers in this area are also members of the Centre for Research on Education in a Digital Society (CREDS) in the Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences. To learn more, visit the CREDS website.
Contact us
At TD Research, we don’t just study problems – we work across disciplines and public and private sectors to co-create solutions and navigate positive paths forward. Our approach blends systems science, socio-cultural insight, and design-led innovation to tackle challenges that no single field can solve alone. This is one of our competitive advantages and what makes us so unique.
By partnering with us, you gain access to a world-class team that’s skilled in navigating complexity, fostering collaboration, and turning bold ideas into actionable strategies. Together, we can shape a more inclusive, resilient, and forward-looking society.
To learn more and to see how TD Research can help you and your organisation, email TDResearch@uts.edu.au.