Threshold Learning Theory  

Threshold learning theory can be described as the connection between two sets of knowledge. This connection allows for the deepening of understanding around the overall topic or concept. A more visual description could be as a door between one set of knowledge and another that allows for their interaction with one another for the first time.

This theory can be divided into two parts. The first is that of core concepts, also sometimes referred to as threshold knowledge, and the second is threshold concepts.

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Core concepts 

A core concept is the conceptual “building block” that progresses the individual’s understanding of the topic. These are the small parts of learning that occur during the study of the topic over time, which in turn allows for a greater understanding of the whole topic to occur. However, this greater understanding can only occur when there are enough core concepts to allow for the connection of a threshold to arise.

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Threshold concepts 

Unlike the core concepts, which are the building blocks of sections of a whole topic, a threshold concept is likely to be a significant shift in thinking in how an individual sees and understands the overall topic or larger connections of the topic.

A threshold concept is likely to be irreversible in the way that it shapes and develops the individual’s understanding and thinking of the topic. For example, before a threshold concept occurs, an individual might know something about the topic but only within the context and confines that it has been provided or taught to them.

As well as the connection that the threshold allows, it can also be described that without the occurrence of the threshold, the individual would be unable to apply their current thinking in other contexts easily.