This document discusses theories of self-directed learning. It defines self-directed learning as when individuals take initiative to diagnose their own learning needs, formulate goals, identify resources, implement strategies, and evaluate outcomes. Three key aspects discussed are:
1) Tough's learning contracts which help structure self-directed learning.
2) Grow's stages of learner autonomy which range from dependent to self-directed based on student needs and teacher role.
3) Pratt's model of readiness to learn which considers a learner's need for direction and support in determining their stage of autonomy.
The document poses questions about factors that influence self-directed learning and how readiness may change based on life stage and situation.
3. WHAT IS SELF-DIRECTED
LEARNING?
“A process in which individuals take the
initiative, with or without the help of others,
to diagnose their learning needs, formulate
learning goals, identify resources for
learning, select and implement learning
strategies, and evaluate learning outcomes”
(Knowles 1975)
5. Questions to Consider
Are most adults self-directed learners?
To what extent are your own learners
(students, residents) self-directed, and when
are they not?
Do we become more self-directed as we age?
What factors does self-directed learning
depend upon?
7. Readiness to Learn
Adults are ready to learn when their life
situation creates a need to know
Most learning experiences are highly
situational and a person can exhibit different
learning behaviors in different situations
A learner can be confident and self-directed in
one situation but dependent and unsure in
another
8. Grow’s Stages of Learner Autonomy
Stage Student Teacher Examples
Stage 1 Dependent Authority, Coach Coaching
with immediate
feedback,
drill.
Informational lecture.
Over-
coming deficiencies
and resistance.
Stage 2 Interested Motivator, Guide Inspiring lecture
plus guided
discussion.
Goal- setting and
learning strategies.
9. Grow’s Stages of Learner Autonomy
Stage Student Teacher Examples
Stage 3 Involved Facilitator Discussion
facilitated by teacher
who participates as
equal
Stage 4 Self-directed Consultant, Internship,
Delegator dissertation,
individual work or
self-directed study
group
10. Pratt’s Model of Readiness to
Learn (1988)
Need for
Direction
Need for
Support
Low
High
High
Learner needs
direction and
support for
learning; lacks
competence and
confidence
Learner needs
direction
(new task) but is
self-motivated and
doesn’t need a lot
of support
Stage 1
Dependent
Learners; need
support and direction
Stage 2
Interested but lack
competence; need
direction but not
much support
Learners who
have ability but
want reassurance
(may act like they
need direction,
but seek support).
Stage 3
Involved
Learners; want
support
True self-
directed
learners; can
provide their
own support
and direction
Stage 4
Self-directed
learners
11. What might your own model of
readiness to learn look like with
-residents – PGY 1-4 or 5
-medical students – M1-4
-graduate students – masters, PhD
-faculty – junior, mid-level, senior
What factors do you need to consider?
Motivational, time, resources, cognitive load
Editor's Notes
An estimated 70 percent of adult learning is self-directed learning (Cross 1981). Self-directed learning has been described as "a process in which individuals take the initiative, with or without the help of others," to diagnose their learning needs, formulate learning goals, identify resources for learning, select and implement learning strategies, and evaluate learning outcomes (Knowles 1975).
Some self-directed learning takes place in comparative isolation in secluded settings. Other self-directed learners engage in more interpersonal communication with experts and peers than is typically available in conventional classroom education.
Three principal ideas are incorporated into the concept of self-directed learning:
A self-initiated process of learning that stresses the ability of individuals to plan and manage their own learning,
An attribute or characteristic of learners with personal autonomy as its hallmark, and
A way of organizing instruction in formal settings that allows for greater learner control (Candy, 1991).