Several questions regarding the frequency and motivation of adult learning are examined in light of findings from several research studies. Focus is on highly intentional learning which is not part of formal course work: a series of time-consuming episodes in which the person's primary intention is to gain certain definite knowledge and skill.…

The concept of independent learning is discussed. Independent learning is defined as learning in which the learner, in conjunction with relevant others, can make the decisions necessary to meet his or her own learning needs. This must be regarded as a direction or goal to be pursued, not as an absolute standard and not as a set of identifiable…

The major portion of this publication contains a bibliography of resources which college students can utilize in an independent study of the economic problems of aging. The first two pages of the publication suggest student projects. For example, it is suggested that students might make a thorough study of retirement planning, do research on the…

Discusses various elements of self-directed education for lifelong education: the nature and essence of self-instruction, self-instruction and the development of personality, motivation for self-instruction, forms of self-instruction, and participation in self-instruction activities. (CT)

Describes an attempt to explore the process of movement from teacher-directed to self-initiated learning in a fifth-grade class. (Author/RH)

The use of the instructional module in college teaching is discussed. The module is an independent learning package that emphasizes students' learning activities rather than teacher activities. Along with independent modular activities such as reading, writing, discussing, and problem solving, students can use more class time to write, inquire,…

Although decision making should be shared between teachers and learners, teachers should take a leadership role in establishing learning objectives, organizing learning activities, and maintaining a positive social environment for learning. (SK)

In this article, we describe the development of a mobile butterfly-watching learning (BWL) system to realize outdoor independent learning for mobile learners. The mobile butterfly-watching learning system was designed in a wireless mobile ad-hoc learning environment. This is first result to provide a cognitive tool with supporting the independent…

The Integrated Contextual Learning (ICL) alternative learning methodology is examined as to the impact it can have on the preparation of future managers. The state of business education is reviewed noting criticism that business schools are too theoretical and out of touch with business realities. The ICL is a methodology derivative of Reiterative…

Self-directed learning is more appropriate than teacher-directed learning for adult students in colleges and universities. In a self-directed learning environment, students collaborate with the teacher in determining the skills to be learned in the course and form teams needed to carry out work to learn the skills. One learner-oriented model is…

Focusing on teaching and learning (the learning process rather than selection of learning content), this book provides a comprehensive perspective on the process of adult and higher education. Part 1 explores the transactional relationship between the personal reflective world of the learner and the collaborative shared world of the educational…