Journal 10: Transfer

I think one of the main points the author was trying to make is that learning and
memorization are far different things. The author demonstrates this point in the line
Different kinds of learning experiences can look equivalent when tests of learning focus
solely on remembering but they can look quite different when tests of transfer are used
(51). Not all types of learning are equivalent when it comes to the ability to transfer. They
go on to say that Knowledge that is overly contextualized can reduce transfer,(53)
meaning that it is imperative for transfer that the knowledge is demonstrated in
many Abstract concepts(53) not just reading it from a book for example. Drawing from
what Ive read, transfer is the ability to apply knowledge to a variety of different aspects
of life, not just to carry it around in your head. Transfer is not possible without learning
occurring first as stated in the line Without an adequate level of initial learning, transfer
cannot be expected(53). There are many different factors in the learning process that
affect the ability to transfer. This point is illustrated in the dart throwing experiment in
which two groups practiced throwing darts at an underwater target located at the same
specific depth but when the depth of the target was altered, the group that was given an
understanding of how refraction changes their perception performed much better.
Because their learning process included an understanding of what they were doing, they
were able to transfer their knowledge to an unfamiliar situation. I think it is imperative
for reflection to be included in the learning process. Through the use of reflection, an
individual is able to build off of previous knowledge that will aid in the process of
transfer. Likewise, each time knowledge is transferred to a new task reflection can be
used to understand how your knowledge has grown to fit that task. My understanding of
transfer is reinforced by Bergmann and Zepernicks piece because it offers a different
perspective of the subject and provides a different set of examples.
Assignment four is driven by reflection. My theory of writing has grown along
with myself through the work Ive completed in this class. In order to complete
assignment four I must first reflect on what I have written to asses the components that
were the most influential on each, whether it be the genre, audience, purpose, rhetorical
situation and so on. The theory that I have constructed throughout this course will serve
as the foundation for my writing in future classes and other situations in which I am
asked to write.