THE CONCEPT OF INDEPENDENT LEARNING AND ITS MODERN INTERPRETATION

ABSTRACT

The article discusses the concept of independent learning and how it has evolved in the context of modern education. Traditionally viewed merely as the ability of a learner to study independently without being constantly led, independent learning has grown to involve more important skills such as self-regulation, critical thinking, and digital literacy. The paper takes a close look at theoretical grounds, technological influences, and educational practices that shape contemporary notions and points out how independent learning fosters lifelong education and personal growth.

АННОТАЦИЯ

В статье рассматривается концепция самостоятельного обучения и ее эволюция в контексте современного образования. Традиционно рассматриваемое лишь как способность учащегося учиться самостоятельно, без постоянного руководства, самостоятельное обучение в целом стало включать в себя более важные навыки, такие как саморегуляция, критическое мышление и цифровая грамотность. В работе подробно рассматриваются теоретические основы, технологические влияния и образовательные практики, формирующие современные представления, и указывается, как самостоятельное обучение способствует непрерывному образованию и личностному росту.

Keywords: independent learning, self-directed learning, modern education, digital literacy.

Ключевые слова: cамостоятельное обучение, самонаправленное обучение, современное образование, цифровая грамотность.

Introduction. Independent learning is one of the critical terminologies in education, wherein learners are perceived as autonomous in acquiring knowledge. Conventionally, it was related to the disposition of learners to learn without being commanded to do so, thus helping the individuals to be self-motivated and disciplined.

Materials and methods. This paper is supported by a critical literature review of scholarly articles, educational theories, and recent empirical studies associated with independent learning. Analytical methods involved thematic coding in order to find out core elements of modern independent learning interpretations and changes in view of technology influence on learner autonomy.

Results and discussion. Independent learning is one of those fundamental components of education that epitomizes the ability of a learner to manage her/his learning process by themselves. Conventionally, it was considered a learning process in which students study or gain knowledge with less constant supervision or direct teaching from the teacher or tutor. Consequently, its importance lies in developing self-discipline, self-motivation, and responsibility toward one's learning progress. Conventionally, independent learning was associated mainly with self-study, reading, and practice away from the formal classroom learning environment. It has traditionally been seen through the prism of learner autonomy [1], in which the student initiates, plans, and evaluates their own learning activities. This conventional view emphasized independence as an option for instigating lifelong learning attitudes within individuals so that they may take on challenges and search for knowledge throughout their lives.

However, as education evolved with technological and social changes, the meaning of independent learning greatly extended. The modern educational landscape requires complex skills beyond mere individual studying. Today's independent learners have to be capable of dealing with time and resources, but also with active participation, critical thinking, and problem-solving strategies and techniques for self-regulation [2]. The development of digital technologies and internet sources revolutionized the context in which independent learning takes place, creating both new opportunities and challenges. Learners can now access enormous amounts of information at any time and from any place, which makes independence a more dynamic and layered skill. Modern interpretations thereby embed digital literacy, reflective practice, and adaptability-skill sets essential for negotiating the information-rich, rapid world that learners confront both within and outside classrooms.

One of the major factors differentiating independent learning as understood today from its historical predecessors is the presence of self-regulation. Self-regulated learning involves learners' awareness and control of their cognitive, motivational, and behavioral processes during engagement in the learning task, with the purpose of setting realistic goals [3], monitoring progress, minimizing distractions, and utilizing effective learning strategies to optimize outcomes. Self-regulation promotes learner autonomy by providing individuals with metacognitive tools: the ability to estimate their own strengths and weaknesses and to alter approaches accordingly. The ability for self-regulation has been associated with higher academic achievement and better engagement in learning activities, which makes it one of the hallmarks of the contemporary concept of independence in education. Apart from self-regulation, the modern independent learning paradigm has also been shaped by the infusion of technology in education. Digital tools, online platforms, and virtual classrooms represent powerful enablers of autonomy, offering personalized learning trajectories, access to resources in real time, and interactive experiences.

On the flip side, however, this abundance of digital content creates the new challenge for learners: developing critical skills regarding digital literacy, that is, critical assessment of source credibility, synthesis of diverse information, and avoiding misinformation. Importantly, the teacher’s role shifts from content deliverer to that of facilitator or guide in helping learners navigate and make sense of the digital learning environment. Besides, independence in learning is encouraged and highly related to creativity and innovation in some educational systems, while others stress structured guidance and collaborative learning. The modern interpretation often encourages a balanced approach, advocating for learner autonomy within supportive environments that provide scaffolding and resources. Collaborative learning also integrates with independent learning where the learners master skills or pieces of knowledge independently but come together in groups to apply, discuss, and reflect, hence enhancing deeper understanding and social skills simultaneously [4].

The advantages that fostering independent learning brings about in modern education are immense. It prepares learners not only for academic success but also for lifelong learning, a key ingredient in today's rapidly changing world. Independent learners develop resilience, problem-solving abilities, and a proactive attitude toward personal and professional development. Moreover, this form of learning will nurture creativity and innovation, as individuals feel empowered to explore subjects beyond the curriculum and contextualize knowledge in real-life scenarios.

However, despite its advantages, encouraging independent learning remains one of the few daunting tasks in contemporary education. Individuals' motivation, backgrounds, and prior knowledge, along with access to resources, are some factors that could impact their readiness towards autonomy. Moreover, unprepared independence-without guidance-means at risk for frustration, misinformation, or disengagement. Therefore, a cautious balance is needed in educational institutions and among educators to provide support, constructive feedback, and frameworks that help learners while giving them ownership of their learning process. Strategies such as scaffolding, personalized learning plans, and the development of self-assessment skills have shown to be very helpful in cultivating effective independent learners [5]. The concept has evolved from an individual, narrow concept of studying in isolation to a broad, dynamic model that contains self-regulation, digital literacy, critical thinking, and adaptability. Its modern meaning reflects the demands that are placed by today's life and education, where learners are expected to independently manage complicated information environments and continuously renew their skills.

Conclusion. The concept of independent learning is now significantly different from mere self-study to one involving a multifaceted approach, encompassing cognitive, emotional, and technological competencies. Contemporary independent learning frameworks emphasize learner autonomy supported by digital resources, critical thinking, and self-assessment skills. This evolution therefore meets the demands placed on 21st-century education in order to position learners for continuous adaptation in a dynamic world. These elements need to be integrated into future educational strategies in order to foster effective independent learners.

References:

1. Broad, J. (2006). Interpretations of independent learning in further education. Journal of further and higher education, 30(02), 119-143.
2. Moore, M. G. (1973). Toward a theory of independent learning and teaching. The Journal of Higher Education, 44(9), 661-679.
3. Agustina, D., & Fajar, D. A. (2019). The importance and the meanings of independent learning: university students’ perceptions. Vidya Karya, 33(2), 104.
4. Игнатович, Е. В. (2013). Хьютагогика как зарубежная концепция самостоятельного обучения. Непрерывное образование: XXI век, (3).
5. Медведев, И. Ф. (2013). Концепция самообразования: основные понятия и структура. Инновационные проекты и программы в образовании, (3), 42-46.