Being self-directed is important when learning online. What does this mean?

It means that you need to be able to push yourself and stay focused.

Self-directed students have more control over their learning:

• They can decide how to learn, what materials to use, and how fast or slow they go through the material;
• They are responsible for their studies.

The student directs their own learning; the teacher helps.

Why should you become self-directed?

Self-directed learners:

• find learning materials that work for them
• are good at working with others
• are better at applying what they learned
• are more capable
• continue learning throughout their lives

5 techniques to become a self-directed learner:

1. Have intrinsic motivation
   Intrinsic motivation means learning because you enjoy it. If you’re learning English to reach a certain language level, you may stop learning after you reach that level. Those with intrinsic motivation stay curious and set high goals. They also focus on being a better person.
2. Set SMART goals
   SMART means specific, measurable, achievable, relevant and time-bound goals. Make a list of your SMART goals. This will be your reminder. It can push you to achieve more.
3. Have a growth mindset
   A fixed mindset says that a student is either good at a subject or not. This is shown by their grades. A growth mindset believes that anyone can learn even if it isn’t easy. A person with a growth mindset will try as many times it takes to learn something.
4. Stick to good study habits
   Create a schedule and stick to it. Do it everyday until it becomes a habit. Here are some examples:
   • Benjamin Franklin had a five-hour rule. He scheduled an hour to learn from Monday to Friday.
   • Bill Gates reads one book each week.
   • Warren Buffet reads 600 pages per day.
5. Apply what you learned
   Use what you learned through a project. Teach someone what you learned. Doing this can be the reward that will make you want to keep learning.

 
Article updated February 21, 2024.
 
Sources: Extrinsic vs. intrinsic motivation: What’s the difference? Kendra Cherry, verywell mind; 7 habits of the best self-directed learners, Kevin Dickinson, Big Think; and Intrinsic motivation: How to pick up healthy motivation techniques, Adrienne Santos-Longhurst, Healthline. Accessed August 9, 2019.