Dr Don Collins

Professor, Faculty of Social Work, University of Calgary, Alberta, Canada

Dr Heather Coleman

Associate Professor, Faculty of Social Work, University of Calgary, Alberta, Canada

Dr Jacki Sieppert

Associate Professor, Faculty of Social Work, University of Calgary, Alberta, Canada

Transfer of Learning

Abstract

There is growing recognition of the "transfer problem" in adult education and professional training. Concerns have been raised that much of what is learned is not easily transferred to work and professional settings. Despite the assumption that learners use the knowledge and skills gained through formal education in appropriate settings, research indicates that students do not easily transfer their learning outside the classroom. Nevertheless, the importance of learning transfer cannot be overstated. The educational system across North America is based on the expectation that knowledge and skills acquired in the classroom will be useful in lifelong pursuit of meaningful work and other intellectual activities. It is not suffice for educators to "educate and hope." Instead, active steps must be taken to ensure that learning transfer occurs. This paper examines the issue of transfer of learning, including research by the primary author in the transfer of social work interviewing skills from the classroom to the work setting. It also discusses what is meant by "transfer of learning" as well as what type of "learning" is transferable.

Bionotes

Don Collins, PhD, is a Professor at the Faculty of Social Work, University of Calgary, Canada. He has been with the University of Calgary for sixteen years and has taught and practised clinical social work for over 25 years. He has published books in field education, family social work and numerous other articles in the are of social work teaching and practice.

Heather Coleman, PhD, is an Associate Professor at the Faculty of Social Work, University of Calgary, Canada. She has been at the University of Calgary since 1992. Prior to her academic career, she was in direct social work practice for 15 years. She has written in the areas of family violence and substance abuse as well as social work pedagogy.

Jackie Sieppert, PhD, is an Associate Professor at the Faculty of Social Work, University of Calgary, Canada. His practice background and teaching both relate to areas of research, social policy, and organizational practice. His published works include books and articles on practice evaluation, health promotion research, and using technology in social work education.

Presentation Type

30 min. Paper

Presentation Equipment and Other Requests

Speaking Date/Time Restrictions

Country

Canada