4 Tips for Self-directed Learning

Self-directed Learning - 4 tips

Self-directed learning is about taking the initiative and ownership in what you learn and how you learn. Most self-directed learning strategies suggest four areas to focus on:

  • Self-Management
  • Self Monitoring
  • Self Motivation
  • Self Modification

Let’s take Nomo as an example.

In self-management, her aim is to plan and manage the learning process. What actions should she take; what resources does she need; and how should she manage her time?

In self-monitoring, Nomo should reflect on how she learns best, what learning strategies work for her, and how the new knowledge gained modifies or adds to what she already knows.

In self-motivation, Nomo needs to create learning outcomes and activities that will drive her to start the learning and to stay on task and persist.

And finally, in self-modification, Nomo will use the new knowledge she has learned to change how she works on future activities and tasks.

This is an ever repeating cycle – for all of us – to add to our knowledge, skills and behaviours, as we learn how to learn and put what we know into practice. In 1972, UNESCO’s Faure report described it succinctly as:

Learning To:

  • Know
  • Do
  • Live together (with others)
  • Be

Good words for today.

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