My discussion forum for PIDP 3250 has come to an end. Here is a summary of the key points raised by our class through discussions regarding self-directed learning and adult learners.
- Heutagogy is the study of self-determined learning. It involves the process of learning content, as well as learning how to learn.
- Self-directed learning can be intimidating for incoming students. An instructor may encounter resistance when first introducing self-directed activities.
- Assessing students needs through the use of conversation and questions may help in engaging each student.
- To foster a self-directed learning environment, the instructor should create a safe, positive environment that includes encouragement and quality, timely feedback.
- Informal assessments, such as muddiest point may help gauge student comprehension, interest and engagement of a subject.
- There are four recognized facets to becoming a self-directed learner:
- self-motivation
- self-management
- self-modification
- self-monitoring
- Helping students learn to be organized, prioritize tasks and manage their time may increase confidence, leading to an increase in self-direction.
- Intrinsic and Extrinsic motivators may be directly linked to the self-directedness of students.
- There are varying degrees of self-directedness that are determined by our current circumstances, past experiences, available time and existing knowledge of the topic.
- Keep a few extra learning activities in your back pocket in case a lesson is not going as well as you had hoped. This allows you to be flexible.