21 Aug Improving Learning Transfer in Adult Education
Learning transfer, o
r the transfer of learning, refers to the effect previously learned skills and knowledge have on subsequent learning opportunities in different situations or settings. At all levels, students apply what they have learned to new experiences, problems and tasks. If such transfer of skills and knowledge were not possible, students would have to learn everything from scratch, over and over again. It is the educator’s responsibility to facilitate this process by designing and implementing a positive learning transfer strategy for his or her students.
Throughout the learning experience, educators should clearly explain the use and value of learning transfer and provide students with succinct and practical examples of this process at work. Educators should keep in mind that it is much easier for students to transfer a big idea rather than small details. Likewise, visual aids, presenting the material in multiple contexts, using questions as prompts, and dedicating time to problem solving and case-based studies are all efficient and easy-to-grasp ways of introducing students to this concept.
Educators should encourage students to reflect on the material and tasks performed in order to trigger behavioral change and the effective transfer of learning. Educators should serve as their students’ guides throughout the reflection exercise, helping them engage with the material and deal with any emotions that might emerge from this process. Assigning classwork that requires students to find and analyze examples of the material being applied to different contexts is a good way of promoting such reflection. Examples include peer and self-assessment exercises, keeping a journal or portfolio throughout the duration of the course, and structured or small group discussions.
The EIMF, offers strong consulting services by implementing the TransferLogix Seven Step Change Process. In collaboration with LearningTransfer Solutions, the EIMF can implement Transfer Improvement Strategies to your workplace via our tried and tested consultation conduct.
