The Transference Problem & Inconsistent Beliefs
Briefly

Skill transference in education appears unsubstantiated, as learning specific skills like chess and critical thinking does not enhance overall intelligence or critical thinking abilities in different contexts. Despite significant efforts to teach critical thinking as a general competency, data indicates that students fail to transfer these skills effectively. Notably, even related subjects within a discipline, such as Logic and Critical Inquiry, do not confer the expected improvement in general critical thinking skills. This challenge indicates a gap in the assumption of skill transference, particularly concerning broader critical thinking capabilities.
Surprisingly, it seems these skills do not transfer. For example, learning to play chess makes a person better at chess, but it does not boost general intelligence.
Students generally do not transfer critical thinking skills. These skills do not seem to transfer well even within a specific discipline.
One might think that taking Critical Inquiry or Logic would confer general critical thinking skills, but this is generally not the case.
It is not surprising that very specific skills would not transfer well, but general critical skills not transferring seems odd.
Read at A Philosopher's Blog
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