An Exploration of How Competency-Based Education Can Support Self-Directed Learners and Learning

Abstract

At a time when workplace skills are rapidly evolving, continuous learning is increasingly important, and the responsibility for learning has shifted from others (parents, schools, teachers, employers) to individuals. Self-directed learning (SDL) can help learner-earners thrive in a skills-based economy. Competency-based education (CBE) is well suited to appeal to self-directed learners and to scaffold learner self-direction; however, existing research on the relationship between SDL and CBE programs is limited. This chapter uses case studies of the experiences of two self-directed learners in a CBE program to explore the role of self-direction in their learning journeys. The key takeaways are that (1) self-direction can have a strong impact on learner success and (2) CBE programs are uniquely positioned to support self-directed learners. The chapter concludes with a discussion of considerations for future research.

Exploring and Developing Items Measuring Self-Directed Learning

“…Within this study, "doctorate student" refers to doctoral students who are supposed to be self-directed learners who take initiative, set goals, and pursue their research and academic progress independently throughout their academic journey. A key component of their capacity to succeed in PhD programmes and contribute significantly to their fields of study is self-directed learning (Boyer et al, 2022). Doctorate students have the capacity to be independent and self-governing.…”