SMILE
mainImage

Unit 1: Independent learning

What do you think Independent leaning means?. There are many definitions, but what it means for new students is that you will need to assume responsibility for your own learning. Here is a definition to help you:

β€œIn higher education today the ability to become an independent learner is crucial. While tutors and other students can provide some support and encouragement, the independent learner has to provide the inner motivation and self-discipline. When you are at university or college, you will need to assume responsibility for your own learning because increasingly there is an emphasis in the educational sector on individuals.” (Payne and Whittacker 2006)

Here is a table that highlights some of the differences between the two learning styles.


Dependent learner

Independent learner

Learner wants:

  • Structured learning experiences
  • Tutor to take responsibility for the experience
  • Tutor-centred approach
  • Rewards and support

Learner anticipates:

  • Experimentation
  • Extensive self-paced independent study
  • Freedom to explore and make mistakes
  • Complex problems for which no one correct single solution
  • Judgement free support

Learner wants lecturer or tutor to be:

  • A subject expert
  • An authority figure
  • An instructor

    And to:
  • Lecture/talk
  • Assess/check
  • Examine/test
  • Design/direct and control the experience

Learner wants lecturer or tutor to be:

  • A facilitator
  • A guide

    And to:
  • Negotiate
  • Encourage
  • Develop
  • Motivate
  • Consult

Learner is:

  • Willing to learn
  • Inexperienced – learns what is required
  • Reliant on tutor for evaluation
  • In need of frequent feedback
  • Not intellectually curious

Learner is:

  • Collaborator
  • Confident in own abilities
  • Flexible
  • Adaptable
  • Autonomous

(Payne and Whittacker 2006)
Creative Commons License

SMILE by Imperial College, Loughborough University and the University of Worcester, modified by Marion Kelt Glasgow Caledonian University is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 3.0 Unported License