Overview

Transfer of learning refers to the phenomenon where experience with a particular skill influences the learning or performance of a new skill. This concept plays a central role in skill acquisition within sports, as athletes constantly build on existing movement patterns, techniques, and tactical knowledge to develop and refine new abilities. The influence can be positive, negative, or neutral, depending on the nature of the relationship between the two skills involved.

A positive transfer occurs when a previously learned skill enhances the learning of a new one. For example, a netball player who takes up basketball may find it easier to learn chest passes, footwork, and spatial awareness due to the similarities in game structure and movement patterns. Positive transfer is most likely when the two skills share similar motor patterns, tactical demands, or perceptual requirements. This type of transfer supports the efficiency of learning and accelerates skill development, especially in young or developing athletes who are acquiring multiple sports experiences.

Conversely, a negative transfer happens when previous experience interferes with the learning of a new skill. For instance, a tennis player learning badminton may initially struggle with the timing and technique of shots, due to differences in racket size, swing path, and shuttle dynamics. In this case, familiar movement patterns may be misapplied, leading to errors or confusion. Negative transfer can be particularly frustrating for learners. Still, with targeted coaching and feedback, it can be overcome.

A zero or neutral transfer means that prior experience has no significant impact, positive or negative, on the new skill being learned. For example, a swimmer taking up archery is unlikely to find that their swimming technique either helps or hinders their archery skills, as the two activities involve entirely different motor patterns and cognitive demands.

Different types of transfer are important to understand:

Skill-to-skill transfer occurs when one specific skill affects another (e.g., a volleyball serve to a tennis serve).

Theory-to-practice transfer occurs when knowledge or understanding (such as tactics or rules) supports the application of a skill in a competitive setting.

Training-to-competition transfer refers to the extent to which practice in controlled settings translates to actual game scenarios.

Transfer of learning is influenced by factors such as the similarity of skills, the learner’s stage of development, and the quality of instruction. Coaches can support positive transfer by:

Sequencing drills in a way that builds on prior knowledge

Highlighting similarities between new and familiar movements

Using analogies or comparisons that make the transition more intuitive

Correcting misunderstandings that could lead to negative transfer

In summary, transfer of learning is a fundamental concept in sport skill development. Whether positive, negative, or neutral, the influence of previous experience plays a critical role in how new skills are acquired. Understanding this process enables coaches to design more effective learning environments, helping athletes progress by utilising their existing knowledge and techniques more effectively.