An ecological theory of learning transfer in human activity

All theoretical approaches to learning transfer assume some form of similarity. Behavioral science has, however, conceptualised similarity in superficial terms. Furthermore, no transfer theory has been developed to account for the full range of skills deployed in operational or intellectual activities. Dynamical systems theory is, at its core, a similarity theory. We leverage from a dynamical systems account of human activity to outline a theory of transfer that views repeatable patterns of behavior as macroscale properties that emerge from interactions between microscale processes of perception, cognition, and action. Dynamic coordination’s constitute solutions to goal directed activity and as such, must be tuned to the affordance structure of the situation and to the capabilities of the agent. Learning transfer, defined as improved performance on a criterion activity from prior experience on another activity, is contingent on improved detection and use of crucial affordances because of that prior experience. We bring together arguments relating to similarity, behavioral dynamics, affordances, learning, and analysis at both macroscales and microscales to identify potentially transferable elements of authentic, multifaceted activities that demand an appreciable level of skill.