The authors describe their observations, as administrators of the Personal Adult Learning Lab at the University of Georgia, about the role of educational technology in adult self-directed learning and the adult learner's reaction to technology. The ways in which the lab is using computer-assisted instruction and interactive video technology are…

Argues that teachers can help students improve their learning by understanding the reasons why students have not been successful, by identifying strategies that promote active participation in the learning process, and by teaching students how to become more responsible for their own learning. (RAE)

Discusses course workload in college-affiliated independent study programs. A program at Brigham Young University that addressed the problem of workload equivalence and reduced the number of submitted lessons is described, including benefits to students and faculty and an implementation strategy. (10 references) (LRW)

Defines adult education as every adult's intentional efforts at self-education, alone and with others, in all human situations, including when the self-educator is facilitating the learning of other self-educators. Self-educating as an attitude, and a practice is offered as a sound basis for the profession of adult education. (SK)

An open learning course for tutor training in Kent (England) uses a loose-leaf file of instructional materials, a tape, and coursebook for home study. Other features are personal mentors, workshops, observation of other classes and being observed while teaching, and access to resources. (SK)

Compared effectiveness of self-directed programed training model with minimal instructor supervision and more traditional high teacher-intensive approach to teaching empathy to undergraduate students (n=60). Found that self-directed empathy training program was as effective as high teacher-intensive program in improving empathy skills of…

A five-year study of the bachelor of science in nursing program at Regents College documents the plausibility and efficacy of a program in which learning is self-directed and acquired primarily through resources external to the institution and which is validated and certified by objective assessment instruments and procedures. (JOW)

Reports on a project to encourage middle school students to use time spent on project work more effectively. Assesses the effectiveness of teaching students some elements of correspondence training that required them to explicitly plan and evaluate their activities. Finds marked improvement, especially among more able students. (DSK)

At several New York State high schools, seniors hold internships in architectural firms, Planned Parenthood, dentists' offices, and television and radio stations. Some make documentaries or pursue independent study in various subjects. These opportunities arise through a program (WISE) allowing second-semester seniors to design and complete their…

In early 20th-century Canada, James John Harpell began correspondence courses and study clubs and was instrumental in the cooperatives movement. He used small businesses to promote social and educational innovations and was an advocate for self-study and lifelong learning. (SK)

Inquiry cultivates epistemological maturity, as students consider what characterizes meaningful questions, attempt different investigative methods, and seek acceptable answers. The Web has six compatible features: specialized information matching students' interests; diverse topics to prompt student-generated questions; multiple perspectives on…

Discusses two parallel processes at work that are upgrading the role of the learner and downgrading that of the teacher. The article examines the reactions of teachers to this situation. The article concludes that improved training for second-language teachers is required to address the problems arising from this situation. (CK)

Identifies learning to learn and information literacy as crucial skills for independent learning, which is becoming the dominant educational paradigm. Outlines characteristics of the ideal library for lifelong learners in terms of resources, access, and services. (SK)

A carefully designed independent study program is a quick, efficient way to fill gaps, redeem mistakes, and create solutions for seemingly impossible problems. Success depends on understanding students' different situations, using proper supervision, requiring a paper trail, juggling multiple options, getting teacher support, and guaranteeing…

Argues that fostering learner autonomy is an important and appropriate goal in language course design, but that principles to guide the design of such courses are currently lacking. Proposes five course design principles for language courses that seek to promote learner autonomy. (Author/VWL)