Independent learning is a concept that has been in existence for years, but only emphasized in the recent past. Many scholars have different definitions and approaches to independent learning, therefore, making the concept bear different meanings to different people. Simon Cassidy primarily refers to independent learning as Self-regulated learning. Cassidy writes that self-regulated learning is a self-directed process that enables students to conduct task-related skills by transforming them from their mental abilities (Cassidy, 2011:990). On the other hand, Meyer et al., (2008) begins by describing independent learning as a concept that involves various elements.
The authors tend to recognize that independent learning translates to self-regulated learning (p. 2). However, the authors proceed to eliminate the notion that independent learning involves students working alone. Meyer et al., (2008), describe the concept as a broad range of roles that teachers play in order to provide an enabling and supportive environment for a student to work independently. The elements of independent learning involve external and internal factors that foster an enabling environment by creating a strong relationship between the teacher and the students (Williams, 2003:15). The concept simply refers to the students” ability to think, conceive, act, and engage in their studies independently while decreasing the levels of support provided by the teacher. However, one must understand that the student and the teacher need to create a supportive environment by creating strong ties that will enable independent learning (Bayley and Featherstone, 2013).
Use your promo and get a custom paper on
"Independent Learning".
What constitutes independent learning skills?
As Stella Cottrell describes how students can develop their independent learning skills, she provides a list of skills needed (Cottrell, 2013:35). Firstly, Cottrell lists cognitive skills, which include attention, memory, quick thinking, creative and problem-solving. Learners need to possess a particular degree of cognitive abilities that will help them interpret the information. An individual cannot practice independent learning without having the ability to decipher basic information. Cottrell also indicates the importance of attention as this skill helps the learners to concentrate on their teachers” guidance (p. 187). Cognitive skills also play an important role in assisting the student to create new ways of thinking. The process helps the learners in enhancing creativity and innovation, which independent learning fosters. A strong teacher-pupil relationship can enhance the cognitive abilities (Christie et al., 2013:17).
Secondly, learners need metacognitive skills to enable them in independent learning. Meyer et al., (2008), shows that these skills pertain to the learners” level of understanding in relation to the learning process. The authors indicate that learners need to possess the ability to demonstrate how they acquire knowledge and establish the individuals that help them in the learning process (Meyer et al., 2008: 4). Cassidy (2013) also points out that these skills help the learners in identifying crucial learning activities such as applying their learnt knowledge, remembering, utilizing formal strategies and listening. Metacognitive skills also enable learners to reflect on their studies, utilize self-assessment strategies and evaluate their progress (Cassidy, 2013: 997).
Thirdly, Meyer et al., (2008) describe affective skills, which involve emotions and feelings. The authors claim that learners require affective skills to develop a value system that enables them evaluate certain interests. Affective skills build on emotions, which subsequently affect values (p. 4). The authors indicated that motivation was an essential affective skill that influenced the results of independent learning. Delay of gratification is another essential affective skill that pertains to the ability of the learner to await achievement results. Meyer et al., (2008) show that a delay of gratification affects motivation, which influences the ability of a learner to acquire independent learning (p. 5).
How to develop independent learning skills
The schools need to develop independent learning skills by incorporating independent learning strategies in the teaching approach. Schools need to promote a study support that gives the pupils a conducive environment for independent learning (Morrison, 2011: 12). Bayley and Featherstone (2013) indicate that teachers can develop independent learning by incorporating ICT in their learning. Encouraging pupils to research on various topics using the internet is a significant way of developing Independent learning (p. 23). The teachers need to build a strong relationship with their pupils, thus teaching the various skills needed for independent learning.
Benefits of independent learning
Meyer et al. (2008) illustrate several ways that learners in higher education can benefit from independent learning. Firstly, independent learning enhances academic performance by helping the student think and relate practical skills to the knowledge acquired (p. 7). The process enhances confidence and increases motivation, as the students can think independently and learn on their own. The process helps the students to engage in their studies and establish their weaknesses and strengths (Williams, 2003:41). In conclusion, independent learning is a learning concept that has many benefits towards the students.
