Exploratory multi-case study of graduate education transfer of learning

Abstract

Transfer of learning research traditionally relies on quantitative research to determine the occurrence of transfer. Many of these studies generally result in a failure to transfer. Few of these studies utilized either mixed methods or a qualitative methodology to determine transfer of learning, and none of these studies looked at graduate level education. This study addressed the gap between the occurrence of transfer of learning and workforce application of learning. A qualitative multi-case study methodology was used to explore the activation of previous learning by graduates of a graduate level education degree program. The conceptual framework of this study was situated on Bransford and Schwartz’s transfer of learning approach as the preparation for future learning blended with Dufrense’s definition of transfer as an individual learner’s complex, dynamic, and highly selective activation and application of knowledge in response to context to explore how graduates of an Adult and Continuing Education degree program transfer learning into the educational workforce (Bransford & Schwartz, 1999; Dufresne, Mestre, Thaden-Koch, Gerace, & Leonard, 2005). The multi-case study research design included semi-structured interviews, classroom observations, participant reflective journals supported by other data sources. A comprehensive comparison was used to analyze each case and a cross-case analysis was conducted to codify the findings to answer the research questions. The findings support the activation of previous learning as the complex, dynamic and highly selective and application of knowledge of the individual learner. The results have implications for degree programs and instructional practices.