Institute for Education Policy Research

Threshold Concepts and Variation Theory

We are taking a leading role in the application of the idea of 'Threshold Concepts' in learning and teaching. Part of this work has involved the conceptualisation of threshold concepts in relation to theories of learning. Through our FDTL5 funded project 'Embedding Threshold Concepts', we have also pioneered the development of learning and assessment strategies that reflect the significance of threshold concepts in students' learning.

Recent Publications

• Davies, P. (2006) 'Threshold Concepts: How can we recognize them?' in J. H. F. Meyer and R. Land (Eds) Overcoming barriers to student Understanding: Threshold concepts and troublesome knowledge, London: Routledge: 70-84.
• Davies, P. and Dunnill, R. (2006) 'Discipline, Outcomes and Purpose in Social Science Education', Journal of Social Science Education 2006-2, at http://www.jsse.org/2006-2/davies_dunnill_disciplines.htm.
• Davies, P. and Dunnill, R. (2008) Learning Study as a model of collaborative practice in initial teacher education, Journal of Education for Teaching 34, 1: 3-16.
• Davies, P. and Mangan, J. (2007) 'Threshold concepts and the integration of understanding in economics', Studies in Higher Education 32, 6: 711-726.
• Davies, P. and Mangan, J. (2008) 'Embedding Threshold Concepts: from theory to pedagogical principals to learning activities' in R. Land, J. H. F.Meyer and J. Smith (eds) Threshold concepts in the Disciplines, Rotterdam: Sense Press: 37-50.
• Land, R., Meyer, J.H.F., Cousin, G. and Davies, P. (2005) 'Threshold concepts and troublesome knowledge (3): implications for course design and evaluation' in C .Rust (ed) Improving Student Learning: Diversity and Inclusivity, Oxford: Oxford Centre for Staff and Learning Development.
• Land, R., Meyer, J.H.F., Cousin, G. and Davies, P. (2006) 'Conclusion: Implications threshold concepts for course design and evaluation' in J. H. F.Meyer and R. Land (eds) Overcoming barriers to student Understanding: Threshold concepts and troublesome knowledge, London: Routledge: 195-206.
• Meyer, J. H. F., Land, R. and Davies, P. (2008) 'Threshold Concepts and Troublesome Knowledge (4): Issues of Variation and Variability' in R. Land, J. H. F.Meyer and J. Smith (eds) Threshold concepts in the Disciplines, Rotterdam: Sense Press: 59-74.