Learning at work, a blog by Danny Tucker (January 2020)

Summary

In his blog, Danny Tucker, Associate Professor in Obstetrics & Gynaecology and Director of Clinical Training, describes how clinicians experience two types of learning: firstly, incremental learning – they study new facts, medical knowledge and technical skills. Through incremental learning, individuals align habits with established norms, conform to ideals laid out by experts and reinforce existing power structures. Incremental learning involves the process of deliberate practice.

Mezirow introduced the concept of transformative learning. This is a deeper, developmental shift, where situations and dilemmas challenge underlying assumptions and beliefs about the world. Clinicians grow through reflective engagement with their experiences, the people they meet - particularly patients - and by testing new mental models of how the world works. Transformative learning changes perspectives and relationships, laying the foundation for personal growth and innovation. It requires curiosity, attention, and courage.

Danny offers practical steps that can be taken to encourage and inspire transformative learning for doctors in training.