Transfer

Transfer is the goal of all education — applying what you learn in one context to new, unfamiliar situations. The challenge is that transfer does not happen automatically; it must be designed for. These patterns help learners bridge the gap between classroom knowledge and real-world application.

Use realistic job scenarios to teach job-specific thinking skills

This Coursera lesson for Data Analysts frames projects around a job.

Focus lessons on specific essential thinking skills linked to optimal workplace performance

This Serious SQL lesson focuses on key workflow steps relevant for workplace performance.

Encourage explicit connection-making across contexts

This Coursera lesson uses open-ended prompts to elicit connection to learners’ personal experiences.

DataCamp encourages learners to make connections across learning contexts.

Provide several diverse worked examples for far transfer skills

This lesson in McGraw-Hill Actively Learn allows students to practice close reading skills with a diverse range of texts.

Provide worked examples of experts’ problem-solving actions and thoughts

Case studies can demonstrate how experts solve problems in relevant contexts.

Situational judgement tests can quickly assess transfer

The Harvard Title IX training uses a short Situated Judgement Test to assess trainees.