The theory and history of SDL is interesting, but how much of it has been applied, how have pioneers done it and are schools applying this? Possibly in elementary/primary levels?
Self-directed learning in the school context is viewed as a type of learning where learners are allowed to work on authentic problems and tasks of their choice, but provided learning support in context to their problems whenever needed. It's range of audience is as wide as the methods in which it is applied. Broadly, it follows a four-step process that has a striking similarity to HR processes like skill-gap analysis, goal setting and performance appraisal. The Centre for Teaching Excellence, University of Waterloo outlines these as key components: 1. Readiness to learn: Being autonomous, organised, self-disciplined, able to communicate effectively, and able to accept constructive feedback and engage in self-evaluation and self-reflection 2. Setting learning goals: Goals for the unit of study > Structure and sequence of activities > A timeline for completion of activities > Details about resource materials for each goal > Details about grading procedures > A section for advising faculty member feedback and evaluation as each goal is completed > A plan for regular meetings with the advising faculty member and other unit policies, such as work turned in late. 3. Engaging in the learning processes: Understanding learning styles and approaches, which include
In most high schools, teachers seem to find it comfortable to state options of projects/problems and let their students figure out which one to pick and the approach to solve it. This I find is extremely specific but limiting, as the control is still mostly in the teachers hands and the period is too short for the learner to explore their self-directedness completely. Given this approach, there are equal number of successes and failures. Although SDL is largely accepted as an essential skill, it is used only as one of the learning approaches. Transition to going hands-off As early as 1996, Sanneke Bolhuis published a paper titled "Towards Active and Selfdirected Learning. Preparing for Lifelong Learning, with Reference to Dutch Secondary Education." It's a short read and gives a really nice perspective on a much larger idea of SDL including learning in real life, how this compares to learning in schools, teachers as facilitators of learning and examines teaching for active and self-directed learning. The self-directed learning process by Bolhuis is a 5-step, non linear approach:
Going hands-off and succeeding One of the finest success stories has been The School Without Walls project. It's been elaborately explained in an article by Deborah E Schweikert-Cattin and Raymond J Taylor, titled "Throw-Away Kids: A Successful Self-Directed Learning Approach". If SWW could achieve this with students who were unwilling or unable to learn in a traditional high school setting, I wonder what the scope of it would be with self-managed learners in any learning environment.
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SHARANYA DilipFun | Learning | Innovation | Education | Technology The more I read, the more I learn. The more I see, the more I understand.
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