Transfer of learning refers to how previous learning influences current and future learning and how past or current learning is applied or adapted to similar or novel situations. Athletic training students enrolled in accredited programs are exposed to didactic theory and clinical practice in the form of educational competencies and clinical proficiencies. The learner progresses through established coursework in which he or she must successfully transfer their learning to clinical practice. This transfer is necessary to ensure the learner matriculates from the level of a student learner to that of an independent practitioner. A variety of supervised clinical rotations are provided to give students the opportunity to apply previously learned knowledge and skills in “real world” situations. These rotations must include controlled problem solving/critical thinking situations that allows for the utilization of knowledge and skills learned from course content. In this sense, the goals of clinical education include authenticating student knowledge, interpreting theoretical and applied knowledge, developing and refining skills, familiarizing students with the workplace, and developing problem-solving and time management skills. Transfer of learning is at the heart of this development. Assessments of transfer of learning will assist athletic training educators authenticate the development of the athletic training student as a learner in the clinical setting.
