Self-Direction

__What is SELF-DIRECTION?__ According to Garrison, self-direction (or self-directed learning) is "an approach where learners are motivated to assume personal responsibility and collaborative control of the cognitive (self-monitoring) and contextual (self-management) processes in constructing and confirming meaningful and worthwhile learning outcomes."  __What does this mean for learners?__ Learners must work independently to plan and monitor their own progress. This includes prioritizing items and finishing them without direct supervision. Students must develop the skills and initiative to become lifelong learners. 

__What does this mean for teachers?__ The role of the teacher changes significantly from the past. The teacher no longer plays the role of the body of knowledge. Rather the teacher becomes somewhat more of a facilitator encouraging reflection, critical thinking, and deeper investigation into the current topic. The teacher will lead but not dominate the discussions as they help students put their thoughts together to form conclusions.

References:

Garrison, D. (1997). Self-directed learning: Toward a comprehensive model. //Adult Education Quarterly//, //48//(1), 18.

//P21 Framework definitions//. (2009). Retrieved from http://www.p21.org/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=254&Itemid=120