Learn: Transfer of Learning

Welcome!Today we’ll explore the concept of transfer of learning. This is an important idea in skill acquisition that helps us understand how learning one skill can affect learning another. Let’s dive in!

What is Transfer of Learning?Transfer of learning occurs when knowledge or skills gained in one context influence performance in another. It can either help (positive transfer), hinder (negative transfer), or have no effect at all (zero transfer).

Types of TransferThere are several types of transfer:Positive transfer — When learning one skill improves performance in another.Negative transfer — When learning one skill hinders performance in another.Zero transfer — When learning one skill has no impact on another.Bilateral transfer — When a skill learned on one side of the body transfers to the other side.

Positive TransferPositive transfer occurs when similarities between two skills or contexts make it easier to apply knowledge or techniques. For example, knowing how to dribble in basketball can help with dribbling in football (soccer).

Negative TransferNegative transfer happens when differences between two skills or contexts interfere with learning. For example, driving on the left side of the road in Britain might make it difficult to adapt to driving on the right side abroad.

Zero TransferZero transfer means there is no connection between two skills or contexts. Learning one has no impact on the other. For example, learning to swim may not affect your ability to solve maths problems.

Bilateral TransferBilateral transfer occurs when a skill learned using one side of the body transfers to the other side. For instance, practising a tennis forehand with your dominant hand can improve the weaker hand’s forehand.

Review Time!Great work! You’ve learned about positive, negative, zero, and bilateral transfer. Let’s test your understanding with a few final questions.