What is learner-driven learning?
Learner-driven learning is the idea that individuals have the power to navigate and direct their own learning path (Watkins et al., 2007, p. 105). With this framework, the learner has more freedom and autonomy. By incorporating autonomy into the classroom, students have some level of control of what is being learned or how things are learned (Ferlazzo, 2023). This type of learning is student centered, and the information learned is more likely to end up in long term memory.
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Since learner-driven learning promotes more autonomy, students have more freedom in their learning. Some examples of what learner-driven learning may look like are:
students set goals for themselves
students are the decision makers
students are the planners
students receive support and encouragement
students are engaged in what they are learning
students reflect on their experience and their results
(Watkins et al., 2007, p. 110).
Based on these ideas, students may be allowed to choose how they can show what they know (ex. poster board, presentation, skit, etc.). Additionally, the students can discuss with others how their learning is going and reflect if they need to make changes. Similarly, teachers can incorporate more authentic activities and foster an environment where they can build connections (Ferlazzo, 2023).
Benefits of learner-driven learning:
When students are given more control over their own learning, there is evidence of more positive outcomes. Some of the benefits and positive outcomes include:
Increased motivation: students have been reported to show more motivation in learning activities where they felt like the teacher was not controlling them (Watkins et al., 2007, p. 115). Additionally, when students are given more freedom to have some say in their learning, they tend to be more motivated to do well in the class (Ormrod, 2020, p. 457). Increasing the intrinsic motivation of students can overall better their learning experience and make it more meaningful (Ferlazzo, 2023).
Higher performance: research has shown that when learner-driven learning is implemented, students are more motivated, which produces better grades and test scores (Watkins et al., 2007, p. 116). Especially in the American schools, tests are a common way of measuring performance, so incorporating more student-centered activities can impact their future performance.
Improved behavior: in some studies, it has been shown that when students are more engaged and motivated to learn, they will exhibit good behavior instead of being disruptive (Watkins et al., 2007, p. 117).