Nicole Kipar

Centre for Academic Leadership & Development

Independent Learners and Self Study

autonomous learning independent study self-directed learning student initiated learning, discovery and enquiry teaching for thinking learning to learn self instruction lifelong learning

Synonyms for Independent Learning

Kesten, 1987

At its most basic level, it is “the ability to take charge of one’s learning.” (Holec, 1981)

DefinitionIndependent Learning

Scary!

Independent Learning

no clear understanding of the concept

used to a highly structured timetable

previously dependent on teachers

don’t know how to manage their time

New = Scary?

Students need guidance

“no act of learning can be self-directed if we understand self-direction as meaning the absence of external sources of assistance.

Brookfield, 1985

ActivityWhat makes a good learner in your opinion?

and how would you define an independent learner?

creates their own learning agendas

seeks out and uses appropriate learning resources

becomes proficient in their chosen area of study

to a level that satisfies their own criteria

An independent learner:

Robson, 1994

sets their own goals and deadlines

organises themselves and their work

evaluates their use of time evaluates your work as a

teacher

An independent learner:

QIA, 2008

Key Problem“Independent learning implies going it alone, unaided” (Knight, 1996)butAll learning involves learners relating to new information, concepts, process – and people. (Biggs, 2003)

In practice, learning is necessarily interdependent

“The self-directed learner should not be thought of as an intellectual Robinson Crusoe, castaway and shut-off in self-sufficiency.

Moore, 1973

Course Design ActivitySupporting Independent Learning

In Groups:

Choose 1 of the 2 courses:1. Foundation degree2. Mathematics

Investigate how you might deliver the course and foster independent learning/self-study