The Liminal Space


​The liminal space can be seen as a transformative space. It occurs when things such as our thoughts, knowledge or ideas are in some way challenged, when our understanding of something is unsettled rendering it fluid.  That space of in-between is a state of liminality, a transition in the learning process, the crossing of a threshold.   From here we begin to reconfigure our prior understandings , perspectives and conceptual schema.  We let go of the conceptual stance we had.  Once we reach this post-liminal mode the shift is irreversible and “alters our way of being in the world”.  (O’Sullivan as cited in Meyer, Land & Baillie , p. xiii).

Things to remember about the Liminal Space
  • Meaningful learning can happen when we inhibit an uncomfortable space
  • Learning is a process
  • Building an understanding of a concept is more important that just getting an answer right
  • The liminal space allows us to grow cognitively, socially and emotionally
  • Each person proceeds at a different rate across the conceptual threshold
  • People may exhibit varied states of liminality.

Strengths and Challenges of the Liminal Space

Approaches, Strategies and Resources

According to Kelly and Crainton (as cited in Meyer, Land & Baillie , p. xiv), transformative learning is a way of making meaning of knowledge and should be considered part of 'covering' content.  As educators we need to offer activities, strategies and resources to assist in promoting transformative learning and create an environment where critical reflection and questioning are both encouraged and supported. 
Promoting transformative learning in the classroom
Providing students with different strategies, activities and resources that present alternative points of view will help promote transformative learning. 
Ideas for helping students navigate the Liminal Space
  • Journal writing
  • brainstorming
  • note taking
  • drawing
  • ​mind-maps
  • quiet area
  • access to resources
  • GIVE THEM TIME
"Those who move best through a formative liminal space always have other sets of eyes on their life to serve as guides. It’s really about having the right accompaniment to help you see what you can’t see, challenge assumptions and narrowed perspectives, discover new truths, encourage, care and assist in any way possible to help get you through your “in-between.” (Liminalspace, 2011)
Help Students Understand
It is important to help students understand that learning is a process.  They may sometimes feel uncomfortable in their journey in particular when they enter the Liminal space, but it is a non-judgmental space.  It is about recognising they are there and knowing it is where exciting learning happens.  In this space they will feel challenged but they will also have a-ha moments, build resilience and life skills.