Transfer of Learning & Understanding How Transfer of Learning Impacts on Skill Development

Transfer of learning

The effect of the learning and performance of one skill, on the learning and performance of another skill.

Positive transfer (3)

• When the learning of one skill helps or aids the learning of another.
• Tends to happen when two skills have a similar shape or form
• Movements of one skill may aid the performance of another

Example of positive transfer

Overarm volleyball serve and a tennis serve

negative transfer (3)

• When the actions of one skill hinders the learning of another.
• Tends to happen when two skills have some familiarities (court size) but the skills are not the same
• This can cause the performer to become confused

Example of negative transfer

The wrist action in badminton conflicts with the wrist action in tennis

Zero transfer (2)

• When the learning of one skill has no effect on the learning of another.
• Tends to happen when two skills have no similarities and no aspect of confusion

Example of zero transfer

Swimming arm action and foot placement in rock climbing

bilateral transfer

When the learning of one skill is passed across the body from limb to limb

example of bilateral transfer

Basketball player needs to dribble with both hands

How to ensure positive transfer (4)

Practice original task.
Use realistic practice situations.
Learn a task well before you progress
Make the performer aware of potential transfer

How to limit the effects of negative transfer

• Performer must understand the requirements of the task before beginning practice
• The environment in which the skill is learned and practised must match the situation in which it will be applied
• Learners attention must be attracted to motor programmes that transfer positively to the skill being currently performed