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‘When we fail to take control of our education, we fail to take control of our lives. Self-directed inquiry, the process of taking control of your own educarion… is the lifeblood of democracy’ – Charles Hayes 1998
Article 2: Personal Learning Space
Week two’s reading had me reflecting in two minds, one as an online student and also as a current teacher. A core concept I found flowing through all the readings was about learners having self-direction. Conner’s (1997) keys points of an andragogy method to teaching include showing learners how to direct themselves and relating the topics to learners’ experiences. As a student I can see how this approach leads to self-direction in learning and in turn self -efficacy. I also adapt this approach in my teaching profession with children as my professional philosophy outlines children having more control over their learning as after all, people, regardless of their age, will not learn unless they are motivated and interested in the topic (Conner, 1997). As a teacher I feel it is important to embed this learning style into young children so they can become capable of self-direction as without this fundamental skill they may experience anxiety, frustration and often failure as they get older (Knowles, 1975). Self-efficacy impacts how we achieve goals and how we see and feel about ourselves (Cherry, 2019). It is made up of our beliefs and its impact ranges from our behaviour motivation to psychological states (Bandura, 1997). I believe having self-direction leads to self-efficacy, and these are key aspects to include in a personal learning environment, and also within a professional teaching environment.
References
Bandura, A. (1997). Self-efficacy: The exercise of control. New York: W.H. Freeman.
Conner, M. (1997). Andragogy and pedagogy. Ageless Learner.
Cherry, K. (2017). Self Efficacy: Why Believing in Yourself Matters. Retrieved from https://www.verywellmind.com/what-is-self-efficacy-2795954
Knowles, M. (1975) Self-Directed Learning. A guide for learners and teachers, Englewood Cliffs: Prentice Hall/Cambridge.
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