Developing Independence in the Classroom. |
"It is not likely that students who are dependent on their teachers are going to be as effective in the world of learning or subsequent employment as those who have developed strategies which enable them to find and use their own resources for learning. Similarly, if students are denied opportunities to participate in decision making about their learning, they are less likely to develop the skills they need in order to plan and organize for life long learning."
- David Boud |
Independent LearningIndependent learning is often linked to other approaches to learning including 'student centred,' and 'ownership' of learning. Developing independence also works well with incorporating technology because of the responsibility required to operate technology, as well as understanding the reality that our students are growing up in - one where we are increasingly relying on technology.
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What are the benefits of independent learning for students?
- Improved academic performance
- Increased motivation and confidence
- Greater student awareness of their limitations and their ability to manage
How does research help students develop as more independent, autonomous learners?
A research medium like the Genius Hour program is a great way to build students as independent learners because of how it allows a shift of control of learning from the teacher to the student. This does not mean that the teacher disappears, more so that they work as a guide and a support. This is a process which will likely need to be built upon over time. It takes time for students to recognize and develop an understanding of their own learning. Metacognition is not accomplished in one hour, or even one month. This is a process that students will be working on and figuring out for their learning life. However, this process can begin to be developed at young ages to help students begin to recognize things that work for them, and things that don't.
Independent learning can essentially be broken down into processes or phases of self regulation which mesh well with a Genius Hour project. |
1. Planning
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Resources
Boud, David. Developing Student Autonomy in Learning. Second edition. London, UK: Taylor & Francis, 21-22.
Independent Learning
Independent Learning