Describe the difference between near and far transfer and then articulate strategies to enhance each type of transfer.
What will be an ideal response?
Near transfer refers to applying learned capabilities exactly in a work situation. Far transfer refers to a trainee's ability to apply learned capabilities to the work environment when it is not identical to that of the training session.
Near transfer is appropriate for closed skills, while far transfer is appropriate for open skills. Performing a closed skill involves responding to predictable situations with standardized responses. In contrast, performing an open skill involves responding to variable situations with adaptive, tailored responses. There is a one best way to perform closed skills; whereas there are multiple ways to perform open skills that are contingent upon the situation at hand.
Programs that emphasize near transfer should include the following:
• using standardized procedures, processes, and checklists
• providing explanations as to any differences between training and work tasks
• encouraging trainees to focus only on important differences between training tasks and work tasks vs. unimportant ones
• providing an explanation why the procedure should be performed to help trainees understand underlying concepts
• focusing on behaviors and skills that contribute to effective performance
Programs that emphasize far transfer should include the following:
• teaching general concepts, broad principles, or key behaviors
• focusing on general principles that might apply to a greater set of contexts beyond those presented in the training session
• providing a list of prompts or questions to help trigger thoughts and questions from trainees
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