What is the concept of 'transfer of learning'?

The concept of 'transfer of learning' is best understood as the ability to apply learned skills to new and different situations. This process is fundamental in education, as it indicates that students can take knowledge or skills acquired in one context and effectively utilize them in another, different context. For example, a student who has learned problem-solving strategies in math class may successfully apply the same strategies to problems encountered in science or everyday scenarios. This ability to generalize and adapt knowledge is crucial for lifelong learning and skill development, as it showcases the practical utility and relevance of what has been learned.

In contrast, maintaining skills through practice over time focuses more on retaining information rather than transferring it across contexts. Learning skills that are exactly replicated in testing conditions emphasizes a narrow scope of assessment and does not reflect the broader application of knowledge. Developing a new skill based on previous knowledge suggests a foundation for skill enhancement but doesn't encapsulate the comprehensive application that transfer of learning entails. Thus, the first option encompasses the essence of the concept more accurately.