Skill vs. Skill Transfer

Skill vs. Skill Transfer- what’s the difference?

A skill is a learned ability to execute a task competently, acquired through practice and knowledge which can be physical, cognitive, or social. When working with learners of any age, a skill is mastered at the point that they can do the task/skill without any support from a peer or another adult (independent), even when the way that the task is presented, changes.

Something that I have observed over the years, especially when working with students who are provided high repetition input, is that they will memorize or learn a skill based on the way it was presented. The moment the presentation changes (i.e. in another order, with a different set of manipulatives/tasks, etc), the skill is lost. This is why it is so important that when learners demonstrate mastery of a skill in one setting, they are provided opportunities to practice those skills in additional settings with support and '“transfer” that skill to another environment. Only when learners can demonstrate that transfer of skill, is the skill truly mastered, and in a way that supports their growth and independence.

This is why we provide multiple programs with supports at Neurotivate, while a learner might not be ready to move beyond a 1-1 environment, small-group setting, or minimal hours, as they demonstrate the ability to do so, those more challenging environments or presentations can occur at a time-frame or level that they can demonstrate success in. Slowly building tolerance, understanding, supports, etc. allows learner to maintain more regulation and more learning- encouraging rapid growth in learning, academics, regulation, emotional support, and social skills.