Education Principles for Learning

This chapter examines the development of professional identity as it evolves during practice learning experiences. It explores some key learning theories that is found helpful in understanding practice learning. The chapter describes the Professional Learning through Useful Support (PLUS) Framework, which applies learning principles directly to practice learning. The professional socialization which occurs when students apply learning in authentic situations is a powerful influence on the development of students&s; professional identity. The metaphor of learning as an experience leading to a state of personal or professional transformation has been formally described in several key theories and frameworks in the educational literature. The PLUS Framework offers a set of strategies for achieving ongoing adjustment or a &s;just-right balance&s; between developing a clear structure and procedures for students to follow, and requiring students to make active decisions to facilitate their own independent learning and development of professional identity.