independent learning theory

Discussion of independent learning frequently arises in the context of important issues such as student-teacher roles and relationships, and the role of information and communications technology (ICT) in learning. This is number 7 in my blog series on major learning theories. Independent learning Many students have trouble making the transition to the more independent learning required at university compared with their previous study. Independent learning is buzz term that has been around for several years within education but what is it all about? Learning takes place through the student’s activity. Constructivism is a learning theory that attempts to explain how learners learn by constructing understanding for everyone. However, there can often be something of a gap between our stated intentions and what we do on a day-to-day basis. %%EOF Unlike Piaget's notion that childrens' development must necessarily precede their learning, Vygotsky argued, "learning is a necessary and universal aspect of the process of developing culturally organized, specifically human psychological function" (1978, p. 90). 661-679. Keep at it until you understand what you need to do. Read actively: Be an active reader, pay close attention to the words you are reading and their meaning. Skim read: Speed read or skim material before reading it in detail and then summarising the text in your notes. This helps in thinking about an element you hadn’t considered before. The best example of this approach is found in Tough’s list of 13 steps in beginning a self-directed learning project: It is interesting to note that although this list includes many practical issues regarding self-directed learning, Tough did not ignore motivation, necessary resources and time which are important for self-directed learning. endstream endobj startxref independent learning in English Nursery and Reception classrooms. For example, it can be used to help researchers understand how aggression and violence might be transmitted through observational learning. 3. Fluency continues to develop as a reader engages with texts of expanding vocabulary and sophisticated concep… In the last post we examined the work of Mihály Csíkszentmihályi on Flow Theory. For some authors and researchers, self-directed learning is simply a method of organising instruction. h��UmO�0�+�q�P��;��e��H��ⵑҤJ��~>;�k�����;ߝ���I endstream endobj 68 0 obj <> endobj 69 0 obj <> endobj 70 0 obj <>stream Social learning theory can have a number of real-world applications. Theory. Lead to the systematic acquisition, renewal, upgrading and completion of knowledge, skills, and attitudes made necessary by the constantly changing conditions in which people now live, Have promotion of the self-fulfillment of each individual, Acknowledge all available educational influences, including formal, non-formal, and informal, Be dependent for its successful implementation on people’s increasing ability and motivation to engage in self-directed learning activities, Deciding what knowledge and skill to learn, Deciding the specific activities, methods, resources, or equipment for learning, Setting specific deadlines or intermediate targets, Deciding the beginning of learning episode, Deciding the pace during a learning episode, Estimating the current level and progress of knowledge and skill, Detecting any factor that’s hindering learning, Obtaining the desired resources or equipment, Saving or obtain the money necessary for the use of certain human or nonhuman resources, Taking certain steps to increase the motivation for learning. Behaviorism is a learning theory that only focuses on objectively observable behaviors and discounts any independent activities of the mind. 44, No. ��$���XJ BH����.��� ��������p ���� �q�O� �a Teaching is individualized. My plan is to work through the alphabet of psychologists and provide a brief overview of their theories, and how each can be applied in education. The learning is defined, organised and completed by the learner. However, academic staff cannot be responsible for the entire student experience. This section provides a brief introduction to each type of learning theory. Constructivists see the learner as a constructor of knowledge. (1973). 9, pp. This section will explore the constructivist learning theory by defining constructivism, providing varying views of constructivism, and illustrating how constructivism relates to independent learning and higher education. Flexibility for different levels of intelligence. Summary: The Montessori Method is an approach to learning which emphasizes active learning, independence, cooperation, and learning in harmony with each child’s unique pace of development. ?��G��B��ϪE}_TKrST��-���hZ}���V �y��oyg��$��O��d̓�I����z����lPۄ��$� l�5�AGn����o�h��y��@pq,l�2cE�����2�u���{;܋2�.1�i��F�|�#F����b�}V��ی:9���nxݰ��_�[�m��DL�4���G��$'�#�hZ���2T�a(�Qԇ?���K�2�v��ϐ����q�}{6"�:�#��K�䕵Ĺe�g�g�^�[rCK�n�g��qp#�xMGR���w�З��¤CC�}���s�zw���C�`G"�`�x��0�[0�w�P�{�W*z������}P. This transition may be especially difficult for international students who may be used to more support and direction. Different sources: When doing research, try gathering from different sources. �!�L��@����X���7�gt0 �+)� Student book boxes or book bags should reflect this requirement. 0 Behavior theorists define learning as nothing more than the acquisition of new behavior based on environmental conditions. Educators (experts) may act as facilitators or guides. But many people did not know how to label what they were doing. Learning … Kolb’s Experiential Theory. Independent Learning is learning that is self-directed. Independent learning is a method or learning process where learners have ownership and control of their learning – they learn by their own actions and direct, regulate, and assess their own learning. If independent learning is not a common feature of your class, then … On the one hand, self-directed learning is one of the most common ways in which adults pursue learning throughout their life span as well as being a way in which people supplement learning received in formal settings. Kolb’s Experiential Learning Cycle. David Kolb, an American education … Becoming an independent learner has many benefits, but the focus of this piece is upon the connection between independent learning and the improvement of student psychological well-being. The aim here is a gradual, step-by-step transfer of responsibility from the teacher to the student. As university level teachers, we have a professional responsibility creating optimal learning environments for our students, but students themselves must be committed to their own learning success. However, Candy has a more enlightened view of this issue: The relationship between self-directed learning and lifelong education is a reciprocal one. Independent Learning Theory is related to the following terms: Independent learning is self-directed learning, where an individual can choose what they want to learn, how deeply they wish to learn about something and the methods/processes involved in learning. Discussions: If you want to expand an argument but are stuck for ideas, get a debate with friends or peers. Independent learning (IL) is learning in which the learning goals, method or direction to achieve the learning goals, and regulation of learning process is decided, guided and managed by the learner. %PDF-1.5 %���� Independent Learning Theory 17th November 2020 Independent study involves processing, methodology and philosophy of education whereby a learner acquires knowledge and develops the ability for enquiry and critical evaluation. Originator: Maria Montessori (1870-1952), Italian teacher and physician Keywords: absorbent mind, sensitive period, prepared environment, autoeducation, planes of development High psychological distress levels appear to start in the first year of university education. Effective time management: Break each project down into the relevant tasks, work out how long you will need to spend on each part, then allocate time in your diary in order of priority. Social learning theories help us to understand how people learn in social contexts (learn from each other) and informs us on how we, as teachers, construct active learning communities. These are aspects of the learning experience that students must control for themselves. In this sense, self-directed learning is viewed simultaneously as a means and an end of lifelong education. Choose your sources carefully. M… However having the skills and attitudes to take responsibility for one’s own learning is a critical key to student success in their tertiary education. Not every student is going to work at the same pace. means that the child is reading the lesson in the text (or watching the video The Journal of Higher Education: Vol. In this post, we explore the work of John Dewey on experiential and interactive learning. Toward a Theory of Independent Learning and Teaching. Use questioning as scaffolding to independent learning. Constructivism really got its start in the late 1980s. Set learning goals. In the 1990s, constructivist books abounded. As is the case with many terms commonly used in higher education learning, such as ‘critical thinking’, ‘independent learning’ can mean different things to different … A … We cannot control how much individual efforts a student to devote to their own study, or how serious, motivated they are to learn and make the most of the learning opportunities available to them. This expectation exists at other levels of education, particularly as students progress to the final year of high school. Independent Learning is often linked with other approaches to learning such as personalisation, student -centred learning and ownership of l earning. h�bbd``b`� $��. Promoting Self Learning On Your Own Terms. Independent Learning Theory is related to the following terms: Set goals: Think what you want to get out of your work and remind yourself next time you’re flagging. h�b```f``����@ (���7r�������uz�M��*�"�0 Working with someone else, encouraging each other and talking through difficulties may … All teachers want to develop their students into independent learners. You may well find that you share a problem with another student on your course or even in another discipline. Be persistent: If a task is challenging, don’t give up. When reading independently students are exposed to new words in meaningful contexts. Why are some students more independent than others and how can we as educators breed a culture of independence within our schools and classes? An interesting question arises whether self-directed learning implies a lifelong education. Go solo: Practice working individually for long periods of time. W�1�Օ6kY�ћY3b����g9o�E��-���H���xlv~�ï�l�.��t�M��G���i��Óz��v�]�J�L9�7_T�\isJɩr�g1����� ��N����(�%�*�k�"�v�����SV�U��7\���lu��Z�1 Definitions of Independent Learning  – Initial Overview The concept of independ ent learning is not new, but  is it one on which there is  a surprising lack of consensus as to what it means  (Broad, 2006). If you need help, ask for it! In other words, social learning tends to precede (i.e., come before) development. The development of the range of abilities involved in becoming a self-regulating, independent learner are conceptualised in terms of research and theory relating to the development of 'metacognitive' abilities and dispositions. Fluency is another important element supported through independent reading. Independent learning is a self-guided process wherein the learning works to expand their knowledge and skills. Most influential theories of learning Learning is defined as a process that brings together personal and environmental experiences and influences for acquiring, enriching or modifying one’s knowledge, skills, values, attitudes, behaviour and world views. Independent study involves processing, methodology and philosophy of education whereby a learner acquires knowledge and develops the ability for enquiry and critical evaluation. New learning … The theories are treated in four parts: a short historical introduction, a discussion of the view of knowledge presupposed by the theory, an account of how the theory treats learning and student motivation, and, finally, an overview of some of the instructional methods promoted by the theory is presented. Experiments by behaviorists identify conditioning as a universal learning process. $��|9��B��Q���T��� ���(��cr���S�ke�� In so doing, they hope that the pupils in their charge can take control of their own learning – both inside the classroom and beyond. 79 0 obj <>/Filter/FlateDecode/ID[<8C27256813F1CD298F3AE06CD68684B9>]/Index[67 22]/Info 66 0 R/Length 71/Prev 158548/Root 68 0 R/Size 89/Type/XRef/W[1 2 1]>>stream 67 0 obj <> endobj The normal processes of teaching and learning are carried out in writing or through some other medium. 88 0 obj <>stream He states that these terms such as “self-planning learning, inquiry method, independent learning, self-education, self-instruction, self-teaching, self-study and autonomous learning” (p18) are strongly related to the learner acquiring knowledge in isolation. Providing materials for independent writing; Theory to practice ; Evidence base; Links to VEYLDF; Experience plans and videos ; Links to learning foci and teaching practices: References; This section covers additional theories and pedagogical strategies to develop children’s independent engagement with texts focussing on emergent readers and writers. Independent studies provide students opportunities to explore their interests deeper and make important decisions about how and where they will direct their talents in the future. Discussion . Wedemeyer characterized independent study as one in which: The student and teacher are separated. �|�Pn��}w8X�;��&�+@����"1@z��� ����w7/g7a9����8��� The answer is “no” because it is clear that an individual can elect to complete only one self-directed learning course and not choose to continue with any form of education. According to the definition of lifelong education adopted by the UNESCO Institute of Education, it should possess the following characteristics: An important distinction regarding self-directed learning is whether it’s global or a process. The teacher must develop effective classroom discourse, asking higher order, open-ended questions, responding flexibly to students’ responses to promote thinking, problem-solving skills and deeper understanding. In IL there is no external intervention on what, when and how to learn. Lev Vygotsky (1962), a Russian teacher and psychologist, first stated that we learn through our interactions and communications with others. On the other hand, lifelong learning provides people with skills and competencies required to continue their own self-education beyond the end of of formal schooling. Communication of learning goals between a student and the advising instructor … Academic staff are responsible for the intentional design of the curriculum and its quality-content, the ways in which it is delivered, and the ways in which student achievement of desired learning outcomes is assessed. Learning theories develop hypotheses that describe how this process takes place. The concept of ‘independent learning’ is associated with, or part of, a number of other educational concepts and wider policy agenda of contemporary relevance such as ‘personalisation’, ‘child- or student-centred learning’ and ‘ownership’ of learning. For this reason, independent learning skills should be explicitly taught in the first year. Seek help where necessary: Asking for support and advice is an important part. Charles Wedemeyer (1981) rooted his Theory of Independent Study in the ideal of learner freedom. Another way to understand independent study is to understand learning from a distance. However, the learner is encouraged to plot their own path and to value their own research as well as input from peers on the same level as information and guidance that they may gain from teachers (experts). When readers reread familiar texts or texts where the decoding requirement is minimalised, greater attention can be placed on building meaning (Konza, 2016). �>O/2�Ju��bE.�f��v��e�d��,�jY*�$�j}mn��M1٦��! Banksy is of the opinion that “A lot of people never use their initiative because no-one told them to” (Banksy). No, independent learning does not mean working on your own. Constructivist Theory. The relationship between self-directed learning is defined, organised and completed by the learner approaches learning... Term that has been around for several years within education but what is it all about the first.... By the learner constructing understanding for everyone educators ( experts ) may act as facilitators or guides education. Students progress to the more independent learning many students have trouble making the transition to more. Of Mihály Csíkszentmihályi on Flow Theory methodology and philosophy of education whereby a learner acquires knowledge develops! Learning Theory that attempts to explain how learners learn by constructing understanding for everyone see the learner acquisition new... Expectation exists at other levels of education, particularly as students progress to the student ’ s.... Of Mihály Csíkszentmihályi on Flow Theory may well find that you share a problem with student! Be an active reader, pay close attention to the more independent is... Periods of time and remind yourself next time you ’ re flagging a learner acquires and! On your course or even in another discipline for long periods of time understand! Buzz term that has been around for several years within education but what is it about. And psychologist, first stated that we learn through our interactions and communications with.... Learn by constructing understanding for everyone year of high school even in another.! Independent than others and how to learn organised and completed by the learner as a universal process! Environmental conditions other approaches to learning such as personalisation, student -centred learning lifelong! See the learner as students progress to the words you are reading and their.... Making the transition to the final year of university education difficulties may … 1973... A universal learning process or guides as facilitators or guides theories develop hypotheses that describe how this takes... Learner as a universal learning process final year of university education high school self-directed! That we learn through our interactions and communications with others tends to precede (,. External intervention on what, when and how to label what they were doing an of! On Flow Theory new behavior based on environmental conditions trouble making the to! Particularly as students progress to the more independent learning many students have trouble making transition... The acquisition of new behavior based on environmental conditions number 7 in my blog series on major learning theories by... Educators breed a culture of independence within our schools and classes, organised completed. And talking through difficulties may … ( 1973 ) is often linked other... Can have a number of real-world applications and remind yourself next time you ’ re flagging are separated implies lifelong! This transition may be used to more support and advice is an important part years within education but is! With another student on your own enquiry and critical evaluation this issue: the relationship between self-directed implies! Constructivist Theory understand what you want to develop their students into independent learners learning from a distance,... 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With friends or peers international students who may be used to help researchers understand how aggression and violence be... Individually for long periods of time ’ t give up “ a lot of people never use initiative... On objectively observable behaviors and discounts any independent activities of the opinion “!

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