Dr. Taiwo Olatunji

Areas of responsibility

• Lecture Modules in the English taught master’s degree programme:
• Theories and societal framework in adult and continuing education
• Lifelong Learning: International Perspectives and Policies

• Lecture focus in the Adult Education Academy:
• From Global Frameworks to Local Realities: How International Adult Education Policy Travels

• Supervision of master’s theses

Research areas and interests

• Transformative learning in migration and cross-cultural contexts
• Migration education and cross-cultural learning/transitions
• Professionalisation and professionalism of adult educators in relation to migration and diversity
• Internationalisation in adult education and lifelong learning
• Technology in the sustainability of adult and higher education

Publications

Refereed Journal Articles

Qiu, R. & Olatunji, T. I. (In press). Bridging Borders: A Duoethnographic Dialogue on Supporting Tomorrow’s International Academics. Journal of International Students.

Bano, S., & Olatunji, T. I. (2026). Media representations of migrants and the role of adult education in sociocultural transformation. Journal of Transformative Education. https://doi.org/10.1177/15413446261427612

Olatunji, T. I., Bano, S., Dazer, J., Capaccioli, M., & Qiu, R. (2025). From Disorientation to Transformation: Employing Cross-Cultural dialogues for understanding learning in contexts of migration. Journal of Transformative Education. https://doi.org/10.1177/15413446251346169  

Olatunji, T. I., Kumar, C. V., Dare, A. R., Adeyanju, A, & Ali, S. A. (2025). Educating citizens for active democracy: Comparative perspectives from India and Nigeria. Andragoška spoznanja/Studies in Adult Education and Learning 31(1), 87-104. https://doi.org/10.4312/as/19866

Fedeli, M., & Olatunji, T. I. (2024). My theory, my tool, my tribe: Unpacking scholars’ perspectives on the evolution of transformative learning. Journal of Transformative Education. 0(0), 1–23. https://doi.org/10.1177/15413446241286481

Araneta, M. G., Liotino, M., Olatunji, T. I., & Fedeli, M. (2024). Leveraging massive open online courses to foster reflective practice in blended university courses. Innovations in Education and Teaching International, 1–13. https://doi.org/10.1080/14703297.2024.2320697

Olatunji, T. I., & Tola‐Adewumi, O. T. (2023). Intersectional analysis of intimate partner violence against Nigerian nurses in the United States. New Directions for Adult and Continuing Education, 2023(180), 25–37. https://doi.org/10.1002/ace.20509

Adebisi, T., & Olatunji, T. (2022). Sociodemographics and psychosocial experiences of distance learners in Nigeria: A comparison of single-mode and dual-mode universities. Journal of Open, Flexible and Distance Learning, 26(1), pp. 63–83. https://www.jofdl.nz/index.php/JOFDL/article/view/513

Olatunji, T. I., & Adebisi, T. A. (2021). Comparative Analysis of Operational Structures in Single- and Dual-Mode Distance Learning Institutions in Nigeria. International Review of Research in Open and Distributed Learning, 22(1). 59–77. https://doi.org/10.19173/irrodl.v22i1.5120

Schmidt-Lauff, S., Schwarz, J., Femi-Aderinto, A. & Olatunji, T. (2019). Flexibilization of adult learning and education in the context of shifting temporalities in Nigeria and Germany. Studies in Adult Education and Learning, 25(1), 51–67. https://doi.org/10.4312/as.25.1.51-67

Olatunji, T. I., Otefisan, M. A., & Ajayi, F. O. (2017). Harnessing blended learning for lifelong learning in contemporary Nigeria. In Adult Education in Nigeria, 22(1), 448–461. Ambik Press.

Book Chapters

Liotino, M., Olatunji, T. I., Araneta, M. G., & Fedeli, M. (2025). Reflective practice in MOOCs: Exploring the role of tutors and fostering teacher professional development. https://aisberg.unibg.it/handle/10446/309209.

Inuwa, B. B., Mancarella, D., Rigoni, P., Olatunji, T. I., Breitschwerdt, L., & Mikulec, B. (2023). Adult education and citizenship education in global times. In Breitschwerdt, Schwarz & Schmidt-Lauff (Eds.), Comparative research in adult education: Global perspectives on participation, sustainability and digitalization (pp. 31–49).

Adebisi, T. A. & Olatunji, T. I. (2017). Achieving sustainable development in Africa through inclusive distance learning. In O. A. Akinsanya and K. A. Aderogba (Eds.), Readings in education, human and sustainable development (pp. 34-50). Ijagun: Tai Solarin University of Education Press.

Papers in Conference Proceedings

Olatunji, T. I., Bano, S., Dazer, J., Capaccioli, M., & Qiu, R. (2024). Dimensions of disorientation and transformation: How does transformative learning occur and manifest in cross-cultural contexts? In L. Fabbri, M. Fedeli, P. Faller, D. Holt & A. Romano, (Eds.), Getting transformation into good trouble: Making new spaces of possibility with community and in practice (pp. 895–898). XV Biennial International Transformative Learning Conference. https://drive.google.com/file/d/1Z3vC3r40jVYJHOsS6JefpLniSHb-JzF0/view

Fedeli, M. & Olatunji, T. I. (2024). My theory, my tool, my tribe: Unpacking scholars’ perspectives on transformative learning’s evolution. In L. Fabbri, M. Fedeli, P. Faller, D. Holt & A. Romano, (Eds.), Getting transformation into good trouble: Making new spaces of possibility with community and in practice (pp. 354–357). XV Biennial International Transformative Learning Conference. https://drive.google.com/file/d/1Z3vC3r40jVYJHOsS6JefpLniSHb-JzF0/view

Olatunji, T. I., & Fedeli, M. (2023). Transformation among Nigerian immigrants in Italy and the United States: A mixed-methods exploration. In W. Griswold, B. R. McNamara & V. Colón (Eds.), Proceedings 2023 international pre-conference (pp. 115–125). Commission for International Adult Education of the American Association for Adult and Continuing Education.

Zhu, Y., Askary, M., Olatunji, T. I., & Qiu, R. (2023). Mapping the development of transformative learning theory across continents: A literature review. In W. Griswold, B. R. McNamara & V. Colón (Eds.), Proceedings 2023 international pre-conference (pp. 255–268). Commission for International Adult Education of the American Association for Adult and Continuing Education.

Olatunji, T., Fedeli, M. (2022a). What is critical in transformative learning theory? A critical review of the research on transformative learning in intercultural contexts (1990–2020). In P. Faller, K. Del Simone, & D Holt (Eds.), Telling, evaluating, and deeping our story: proceedings of the 14th international transformative learning conference (pp. 317–320). International Transformative Learning Association. https://drive.google.com/file/d/1VjvSVeVko8t2g8TniGlYu10IlffW_0yj/view

Olatunji, T. I. & Fedeli, M. (2022b). (Non)preparation to live in another country: Cross-cultural experiences as precursors of transformative learning among Nigerian immigrants in Italy. In W. Griswold, L. Boyd, V. Colón & B. R. McNamara (Eds.), Proceedings 2022 international pre-conference (pp. 62–72). Commission for International Adult Education of the American Association for Adult and Continuing Education. http://files.eric.ed.gov/fulltext/ED628982.pdf 

Femi-Aderinto, A. M. & Olatunji, T. I. (2017). Security risks and challenges confronting female itinerant merchants: A case of the Yoruba Alájàpá in Modákẹ́kẹ́, South-western Nigeria. In M. Ukpong-Afolayan, K. O. Olayode & O. Mejiuni (Eds.), Gender and security: shifting perspectives, transforming communities (pp. 96–102. Centre for Gender and Social Policy Studies.

Dissertation and Thesis

Olatunji, T. I. (2024). Good to Go? Journeys of cross-cultural preparedness, transitions and transformations among Nigerian immigrants. [Doctoral dissertation, University of Padua, Italy]. Padua Research Archive. https://www.research.unipd.it/handle/11577/3516595

Olatunji, T. I. (2018). A comparative study of distance education program of National Open University of Nigeria and Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife, Nigeria. [Master’s thesis, Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife, Nigeria]. OAUSpace. https://ir.oauife.edu.ng/handle/123456789/7211

Other Publications: Abstracts, Essays, Blogs

Olatunji, T. I. (2024). Actioning transformative learning in higher education through active learning: Potentials and pitfalls. In: Co-creating change for sustainability: Book of abstracts (pp. 123–126). 2024 Higher Education Summit. https://uploads.strikinglycdn.com/files/c8f7f991-1312-4d86-8dac-68e5c281395b/HES2024_Abstracts_240904.pdf?t=1725456263&id=4176968 

Dazer, J., Olatunji, T. I., Danquah, J (2024). Creating spaces for change: Reframing migration-related challenges in adult education. Crisis and transformation. 29th German Educational Research Association Congress 2024.

Olatunji, T. I. (July 3, 2024). MOOCs for Reflective Practice: A Forward Step in Higher Education. The SEDA Blog. https://thesedablog.wordpress.com/2024/07/03/moocs-for-reflective-practice-a-forward-step-in-higher-education/ 

Olatunji T. (2022). [Abstract] Preparing and learning for migration: Who supports adult (im)migrants? 2022 Education Institute Virtual Conference “Promoting Innovation in a Global Era for Better Living, Working, and Learning. College of Education.” Texas State University, USA, October 29, 2022.

Olatunji, T. I. (2022). Adult learning and education for active democratic citizenship: Policies, practice and public pedagogy for immigrants in Veneto, Italy. Transnational essay presented at the Adult Education Academy 2022. 

Conference Presentations & Participation (Selected)

Olatunji, T. I. (2025). Participants’ Introductory Stories and Conclusionary Metaphors: Understanding Narratives Through Sociodemographic Data and Image Elicitation. Commission for International Adult Education Pre-Conference, AAACE 2025 Annual Conference. Cincinnati, Ohio, USA. October 6-10, 2025.

Olatunji, T. I., Mercado, N., & Hatcher, C. (2025). Migration as Transformation: Empowering Migrants through Education and Resilience to Shape Inclusive Societies. 6th International Conference of the ESREA Migration, Transnationalism and Racisms Network, University of Graz, Austria. May 22–23, 2025.

Olatunji, T. I., & Bano, S. (2024). The nexus of migration and adult education: Clarifying concepts and creating new trajectories for international adult education. Commission for International Adult Education Pre-Conference, AAACE 73rd Annual Conference, Reno NV, USA. October–November 2024.

2024. Papers Presented: (i) My theory, my tool, my tribe: Unpacking scholars’ perspectives on transformative learning’s evolution, with Monica Fedeli; (ii) Symposium — Dimensions of disorientation and transformation: How does transformative learning occur and manifest in cross-cultural contexts? with Sara Bano, Jasmin Dazer, Martina Capaccioli, & Ruoyi Qiu. XV Biennial International Transformative Learning Conference “Getting Transformation into Good Trouble: Making New Spaces of Possibility with Community and in Practice.” September. University of Siena, Italy

2024. Paper Presented: Actioning transformative learning in higher education through active learning: Potentials and pitfalls. Higher Education Summit “Co-Creating Change for Sustainability.” September. University of Padua, Italy.

2024. International Conference “Transformation of Learning Environments - Innovative and Inclusive Approaches.” June. University for Continuing Education Krems, Austria.

2024. Symposium: Creating spaces for change: Reframing migration-related challenges in adult education, with Jasmin Dazer & Jennifer Danqua. The 29th Congress of German Education Research Association. March. Martin Luther University Halle-Wittenberg, Halle, Germany.

2023. Paper Presented: Transiting and transforming: Cross-cultural experiences and perspectives of Nigerian immigrants in the United States, with Lisa Baumgartner & Joellen Coryell. American Association for Adult and Continuing Education 72^nd Annual Conference. October. Lexington KY, United States.

2023. Paper Presented: Transformation among Nigerian immigrants in Italy and the United States: A mixed-methods Exploration, with Monica Fedeli. International Pre-Conference of the Commission for International Adult Education, American Association for Adult and Continuing Education 72^nd Annual Conference. October. Lexington KY, United States.

2023. Paper Presented: Mapping the development of transformative learning theory across continents: A literature review, with Yidan Zhu, Mona Askary & Ruoyi Qiu. International Pre-Conference of the Commission for International Adult Education, American Association for Adult and Continuing Education 72^nd Annual Conference. October. Lexington KY, United States.

2023. Paper Presented: Creating transformation communities across cultures: Lessons from two intercultural studies, with Marianne Grace Araneta. Transformations Conference 2023 “Transformative Partnerships for a Better World.” July. Prague, Czech Republic.

2023. Paper Presented: Researching transformative learning among Nigerian immigrants: Potentials and pitfalls of mixed data. Expo Research: International Graduate Student Research Forum on Sustainability, Global Citizenship, and Adult, Professional, Community, and Higher Education. May. University of Padua, Italy.

2022. Paper Presented: (Non)preparation to live in another country: Cross-cultural experiences as precursors of transformative learning among Nigerian immigrants in Italy, with Monica Fedeli. International Pre-Conference of the Commission for International Adult Education, American Association for Adult and Continuing Education 71^st Annual Conference. October. Milwaukee WI, United States.

2022. Arqus Annual Conference. April. University of Padua, Italy.

2022. Paper Presented: What is critical in transformative learning theory? A critical review of the research on transformative learning in intercultural contexts (1990–2020), with Monica Fedeli. International Transformative Learning Conference. April. Michigan MI, United States.

2022. Paper Presented: Preparing and learning for migration: Who supports adult (im)migrants? The Education Institute Virtual Conference. October. Texas State University, San Marcos TX, United States.

2021. Re-thinking Adult Education Research Beyond the Pandemic Towards the INTALL Project Results – International Online Conference. June. University of Florence, Italy.

2021. Adult Education in Global Times: An International Research Conference (AEGT2021). June. The University of British Columbia, Vancouver, Canada.

2018. Lifelong Learning Policies & Adult Education Professionals: Contextual and Cross-Contextual Comparisons between Europe and Asia. International Conference of Asia-Europe Meeting. February. Wuerzburg, Germany.

2017. Paper Presented: Security risks and challenges confronting female itinerant merchants: A case of the Yoruba Alájàpá in Modákẹ́kẹ́, South-western Nigeria, with Femi-Aderinto. The Centre for Gender and Social Policy Studies (CGSPS) International Bi-ennial Conference on Gender and Security. May. Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife, Nigeria.

2016. Fafunwa Educational Foundation Conference. September. University of Lagos, Akoka, Lagos, Nigeria.

2016. Paper Presented: Promoting blended learning for lifelong learning in contemporary Nigeria, with Matthew A. Otefisan, & Florence O. Ajayi. National Conference of Nigerian National Council for Adult Education. November. Alvan Ikoku Federal College of Education, Owerri, Nigeria.