Towards learner autonomy
I have found myself recently thinking about how important it is to foster independence in learners you are training and I'd like to share some of these thoughts with you.
Here is my working definition of autonomous learning:
"The learner's ability to set appropriate learning goals and take charge of his or her own learning (Holec, 1981) including:
- a set of skills which can be learned and applied in self-directed learning;
- the exercise of learners' responsibility for their own learning;
- learners determining the direction of their own learning."
Why is it desirable for learners to be more independent?
The independent learner is
- able to set goals;
- make choices and decisions about how to meet his learning needs;
- take responsibility for constructing and carrying out his own learning;
- monitor his progress toward achieving his learning goals;
- self-assess the learning outcomes.
So above all else an independent learner is an engaged learner. This engagement will lead to higher retention rates and an increased ability to put into practice what has been learnt during a training session.
What can you do when training to foster learner autonomy?
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Allow learners to establish their own objectives;
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Motivate learners to think about why they are learning certain things, exactly what they are learning, and how they learn most effectively;
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Encourage peer support and co-operation during the training session;
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Give learners the space to give their own meaning to the information you present ;
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Respond flexibly to learner requests and not just follow a pre-determined path blindly;
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Allow learners to measure their own progress;
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Give learning techniques, such as how to memorise;
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Give feedback
Learner autonomy is most necessary when taking part in online learning, but it is important to foster the skill in face to face training sessions. This will lead to true blended learning, where the face to face and group work builds the skills necessary for the online and the online builds on the foundation laid in the face to face sessions.
