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Self-directed learning

📚 Education By CampusDown Wiki Editorial Team Last updated
Self-directed learning is a process in which learners take the initiative to diagnose needs, set goals, find resources, choose strategies and evaluate outcomes (Knowles, 1975).
Contents
  1. 1. Overview
  2. 2. Frequently asked questions
  3. 3. References

Overview

Malcolm Knowles (1975) defined self-directed learning as learners taking the initiative, with or without help, to diagnose needs, set goals, identify resources, implement strategies and evaluate outcomes; it is central to andragogy. It is broader than Zimmerman’s self-regulated learning, which focuses on the plan–monitor–reflect cycle. Guglielmino’s SDLRS (1977) measures readiness; self-efficacy and intrinsic motivation (self-determination theory) matter.

Frequently asked questions

Is it learning alone?
No; it is about initiative, and seeking help is part of it.

References

  1. Knowles, M. S. (1975). Self-Directed Learning: A Guide for Learners and Teachers. Association Press.
  2. Zimmerman, B. J. (2002). Becoming a self-regulated learner: An overview. Theory Into Practice, 41(2), 64–70.
  3. Guglielmino, L. M. (1977). Development of the Self-Directed Learning Readiness Scale. Doctoral dissertation, University of Georgia.

Reports and materials that use this theory (Korean)

There are no materials dedicated to this theory yet, but you can search related reports in the CampusDown library (Korean).

Find more reports · Search '자기주도학습' on CampusDown →
Adult Learning Theory (Knowles' Andragogy)Knowles' andragogy: contrast with pedagogy, six assumptions about adult learners (self-concept, experience, readiness, orientation, motivation, need to know), self-directed learning, Mezirow's transformative learning, and criticisms.📚 EducationSelf-EfficacyBandura's self-efficacy: efficacy versus outcome expectations, the four sources (mastery, vicarious experience, verbal persuasion, physiological states), level, strength and generality, measurement, and uses in learning, health behaviour and counselling.🧠 PsychologySelf-Determination TheoryDeci and Ryan's self-determination theory: the three basic psychological needs (autonomy, competence, relatedness), the continuum from amotivation to intrinsic motivation, six mini-theories, applications and criticisms.🧠 PsychologyMastery learningMastery learning holds that most students can reach learning goals given enough time and appropriate instruction, using unit formative tests with corr📚 EducationProblem-based learningProblem-based learning (PBL) starts from authentic, ill-structured problems that small groups solve by finding the knowledge they need themselves.📚 Education

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This article was last updated on October 24, 2026. It is based on widely recognized original works and textbooks; when citing it in a paper, please check the original sources listed in the references.