Inspire students to be more self-directed: refers to the learning strategy that fosters independent
learning. The session will brainstorm challenges that stop teachers from promoting SDL and best
strategies to incorporate the SDL into teaching and learning.
Challenges that stop teachers from promoting SDL
1. Limited Time: Teachers often have limited time for planning and teaching. SDL requires
additional time for lesson planning and implementation, which can be a challenge for teachers
who are already overworked.
2. Curriculum Demands: Many schools and districts have strict curriculum requirements that may
not align with SDL principles. Teachers may find it difficult to promote SDL when they are
required to adhere to a predetermined curriculum.
3. Limited Resources: SDL requires access to a wide range of resources, including technology,
books, and other materials. Schools with limited budgets or resources may struggle to provide
these resources to teachers, which can make it difficult for them to promote SDL effectively.
4. Student Readiness: Some students may not be prepared to take ownership of their learning and
may require more structure and guidance from teachers. Teachers may find it difficult to
promote SDL when students are not ready for it.
5. Classroom Management: Promoting SDL requires teachers to step back and let students take
more responsibility for their learning. This can be a challenge for teachers who are used to being
in control of the classroom and may struggle with relinquishing some of that control.
6. Assessment: SDL often involves alternative forms of assessment, such as self-assessment, peer
assessment, and project-based assessments. Teachers may struggle to develop and implement
these types of assessments, particularly if they are not familiar with them.
7. Lack of Training: Many teachers may not have received training on how to promote SDL
effectively. Without proper training, teachers may not know how to implement SDL or may not
understand its benefits.
8. Parental Expectations: Parents may have expectations of traditional teacher-led instruction,
which can be a challenge for teachers who want to promote SDL. Teachers may need to educate
parents on the benefits of SDL and how it can help their children succeed in the long term.
9. Lack of Collaboration: SDL requires collaboration among teachers, students, and parents.
Teachers may find it difficult to promote SDL if they do not have support from their colleagues or
if there is a lack of collaboration between teachers, students, and parents.
10. Classroom Size: Larger class sizes may make it more difficult for teachers to promote SDL, as
they may struggle to provide individualized attention to each student. This can be a challenge,
particularly in schools with limited resources and funding.
HMW? s
1. How might we help students identify their personal interests and passions to motivate them to
take more initiative in their learning?
2. How might we encourage students to set goals for themselves and take ownership of their
learning process?
3. How might we provide opportunities for students to make choices and decisions about their
learning, such as selecting projects or assignments that align with their interests and strengths?
4. How might we foster a growth mindset in students, encouraging them to embrace challenges and
view mistakes as opportunities for learning?
5. How might we provide students with more autonomy in their learning, allowing them to work at
their own pace and focus on areas of interest or need?
6. How might we create a culture of inquiry in the classroom, encouraging students to ask questions
and pursue their own lines of inquiry?
7. How might we leverage technology and other resources to provide students with more
opportunities for self-directed learning?
8. How might we foster a sense of community in the classroom, encouraging students to collaborate
and support each other in their learning journeys?
9. How might we provide ongoing feedback and support to students, helping them to reflect on their
progress and set new goals for themselves?
10. How might we incorporate self-reflection and metacognitive strategies into our teaching, helping
students to become more aware of their own learning process and take more ownership of their
learning?
How can teachers create an environment that inspires self-directed learning in students?
1. Foster a Growth Mindset: Encourage students to see challenges as opportunities for growth, and
emphasize the value of effort and persistence.
2. Encourage Questions: Encourage students to ask questions and to explore the world around them.
Provide resources and opportunities for them to do so.
3. Empower Students: Give students control over their learning by allowing them to make choices
about what they learn, how they learn, and when they learn.
4. Provide Relevant Content: Ensure that the content being taught is relevant and meaningful to
students, and that it relates to their interests and experiences.
5. Encourage Collaboration: Create opportunities for students to work together and learn from each
other. Encourage them to share their ideas and insights with one another.
6. Celebrate Success: Celebrate the successes of students, and help them to see the progress they are
making over time. This will help to build their confidence and motivation.
7. Use Technology: Utilize technology to support self-directed learning, such as providing access to
online resources, apps, and tools that students can use to explore and learn.
8. Model Self-Directed Learning: Show students what self-directed learning looks like by modeling
it yourself. Share your own learning experiences and strategies with them, and encourage them to
do the same.