Methodological challenges in researching threshold concepts: a comparative analysis of three projects

Transformative insights: A synthesis of threshold concept theory and graduate attributes

“…However, such an approach seems inherently unsatisfactory and points to a lack of precision and clarity about the protocols for conducting research on threshold concepts (Quinlan et al, 2013). This outcome can be partially attributed to a lack of rigour and consistency in approaches to identifying threshold concepts in previous research (Barradell, 2013), which has resulted in considerable diversity in philosophical approaches and methodological applications of threshold concept theory within the disciplines.…”

“…Some are now considered optional, rather than essential, such that threshold concepts may now be described as probably irreversible, having the capacity to be integrative, being possibly bounded, or as potentially troublesome (Barradell, 2013;Carmichael, 2012;Meyer & Land 2006a;Rowbottom, 2007); there does, however, appear to be fairly wide agreement that being transformative is an essential property of a threshold concept Carmichael, 2014;Meyer & Land, 2006a;Quinlan et al, 2013;Rowbottom, 2007). It has also been proposed that threshold conceptions (Land et al 2005), threshold capabilities , threshold skills (Thomas et al, 2014) or threshold experiences (Foley, 2014), rather than threshold concepts, might be more useful constructions.…”

“…Discursive: incorporating an extended use of natural, symbolic and artificial language characteristic of particular disciplinary discourses and thinking processes; and 8. Liminal: likening the internalisation of a threshold concept to a journey or rite of passage Barradell, 2013;Meyer, 2012;Quinlan et al, 2013).…”

“…They also highlight a concern that threshold concept theory may endorse orthodox ways of thinking and practising within a community of practice, and risks becoming a form of disciplinary essentialism that privileges dominant views and inhibits alternative ways of knowing Quinlan et al, 2013).…”

Uncovering “Threshold Concepts” in Web Development: An Instructor Perspective

“…To date, there is a plethora of research into threshold concepts within a range of subject disciplines, including biology [Ross et al 2010;Taylor 2006;Taylor and Meyer 2010], economics [Davies and Mangan 2007;Davies 2012;Reimann and Jackson 2006;Shanahan et al 2006], engineering [Harlow et al 2011;Kabo and Baillie 2009;Quinlan et al 2013], law [Wimshurst 2011], management [Wright and Gilmore 2012], and spatial science [Srivastava 2012]. Across these articles, there is a belief that the identification of threshold concepts can help instructors discuss approaches to teaching difficult concepts and enable the design of curricula around such thresholds ].…”