Inspiring self-regulated learning in everyday classrooms: teachers’ professional competences and promotion of self-regulated learning

Abstract

Today’s success metrics extend beyond traditional literacy and numeracy to encompass strategic learning with a growth mindset, equipping individuals with the attitude and skills to navigate and surmount new challenges. In a digital era, where information is readily available and knowledge constantly evolves, the value placed on learners is not merely based on their current knowledge but on their courage and capability to continually engage cognitive, metacognitive, motivational, social, and emotional resources for lifelong learning. In this dynamic landscape, self-regulated learning (SRL) skills are crucial, empowering students of all ages to take control of their learning journey. SRL, the goal-directed process of monitoring and regulating one’s learning activities, has been shown to significantly influence academic outcomes. Although teachers acknowledge SRL’s relevance, it remains underrepresented in everyday teaching practices, impacting not just student learning but also the training and experiences of preservice teachers in the classroom. This gap perpetuates misconceptions about SRL and hinders its integration into educational settings. Therefore, this special issue first introduces the INSPIRE model of teachers’ multiple roles as instructors, navigators, strategists, promoters, innovators, role models, and encouragers in supporting students to become self-regulated learners and describes teachers’ professional competences to fulfil these roles. Second, it dedicates four articles to exploring teachers’ professional competences in SRL and its promotion in everyday school. The articles address particular aspects of the INSPIRE model and highlight the importance of teachers equipped with the necessary training and competences to guide students in becoming self-regulated learners. Linking the research areas of teachers’ professional competences in SRL and teachers’ promotion of SRL in the classroom this special issue offers a comprehensive approach to SRL in everyday school and opens up perspectives for the transfer into practice.