Independent learning

If you ask lecturers what qualities they expect from their students, they usually mention the ability to learn independently. What do they mean by this and why do they expect it?. Fundamentally, independent learning involves taking responsibility for your own learning. Before we explore more fully what ‘taking responsibility for your own learning’ involves, we need to discuss two key expectations that underlie the notion of responsibility. These relate to the concepts of the student as an individual and as an independent adult. Most English-speaking cultures stress the role of the individual in society. This means that people in English-speaking cultures tend to see society as composed of separate individuals each of whom has their own unique interests and talents. They believe that one of the major features of a healthy society is that it allows each member to develop their talents and interests as fully as possible. This attitude is reflected in the education system.