Transfer of learning.

Abstract

The goal of education goes beyond mere learning and retention _ learners are expected to use their acquired newly acquired knowledge outside the school environment.Learning is said to have been transferred when material learnt in one situation is applied to a related, though different situation. A theory known as faculty psychology or the doctrine of formal discipline, identified four faculties of the mind, namely will, reason, judgement and memory that could be improved by studying difficult subjects. This theory is no longer supported by most psychologists and educators.Instead, the emphasis is on the transfer potential of what has been learned. For example, knowledge of mathematics facilitates one’s understanding of physics, chemistry and other mathematical-based subjects. Teachers should emphasise on transfer potential of what they teach, either in terms of further classwork or in terms of application to real life. This can be achieved through a variety of methods, such as drawing learners’ attention to the transfer potential of what they are studying, asking a variety of questions; asking learners to work on assignments based on what they have studied, and teaching from their point of view (empathy). This in short is what this Paper is about and seeks to achieve.