Transfer of Learning: Co-workers and Others

Be supportive of learners' accomplishments

Soon after the learning event, ask the learners what they have learned that is most helpful; ask them about ways to apply knowledge and skills at your site, and assure them that you will help them with the transfer of learning. Although the initial conversation might be just a friendly chat, make sure that you set aside time to talk about their learning experience in more detail. In most cases, especially when complex clinical procedures are involved, learners will not have the skills to actually teach you what they have learned. However, they will be able to share basic principles with you that will allow you to support their learning efforts. Try using some of the following suggestions to support the transfer of learning:

Ask learners to share copies of learning materials, then review the materials to update your own understanding of the topic. Discuss with the learners things that you find interesting in the materials and ideas they have shared.
If the site supervisor has agreed that new standards or procedures are to be adopted (e.g., stricter infection prevention practices), ask the supervisor how you can assist in their application. Although you will need training to upgrade your own knowledge and skills, learners can provide you with an initial orientation to the new practices.
If the learners acquired a new skill, watch them demonstrate the skill or offer to participate in role-plays with them so that they can continue to practice what they have learned. Find ways to encourage them to apply their new skills.

People are influenced by those around them—you can help your co-workers apply their new knowledge and skills so that everyone can benefit.

Supervisors — Before Learning

Supervisors — During Learning

Supervisors — After Learning

Trainers — Before Learning

Trainers — During Learning

Trainers — After Learning

Learners — Before Learning

Learners — During Learning

Learners — After Learning

Co-workers and Others — Before Learning

Co-workers and Others — During Learning

Co-workers and Others — After Learning

Supervisors

Trainers

Learners

Co-workers and Others

Matrix Help

The transfer of learning process is an interrelated series of tasks performed by Supervisors, Trainers, Learners, and Co-workers and Others Before, During and After a learning intervention in order to maximize transfer of knowledge and skills and improve job performance.

The Transfer of Learning Matrix outlines the specific tasks performed by each group during each step of the process. Each row of the matrix corresponds to a group involved in the process: Supervisors, Trainers, Learners, and Co-workers and Others. Each column corresponds to a step of the process: Before Learning, During Learning and After Learning.

To zero in on the specific tasks to be performed by one group during a step of the process, click that square of the matrix. Click a group's name to list all of that group's tasks during the transfer of learning process.