ABSTRACT

This chapter provides an overview of the main factors facilitating the transfer of learning, focusing on the learner, the course design and the workplace. Whilst all learner characteristics, course design and work environment factors are often viewed in isolation, Boud and Walker's model for promoting learning from experience incorporates all three. The learner focuses on determining what is important and identifies meaningful connections, to him or herself, from ideas, stimuli and learning. The importance of learning about the backgrounds of adult students prior to commencing teaching was highlighted by the teachers from the Cook Islands. The workplace plays an important part in the transfer process, as it is here that the learner is expected to demonstrate their new knowledge and skills. Direct supervisor support is seen as crucial, since the supervisor often determines whether new learning can be implemented at the workplace.