How do you develop your own self-directed learning skills as an online instructor?

1 Assess your needs and interests

The first step of self-directed learning is to identify your strengths and weaknesses, your passions and motivations, and your gaps and opportunities as an online instructor. You can use various tools and methods to assess your needs and interests, such as self-evaluation questionnaires, feedback surveys, online quizzes, or personal reflection journals. By doing so, you will be able to prioritize your learning goals and align them with your personal and professional values.

2 Plan your learning activities

The second step of self-directed learning is to plan how you will achieve your learning goals, what resources and strategies you will use, and how much time and effort you will devote to them. You can use a variety of tools and methods to plan your learning activities, such as SMART goals, action plans, calendars, checklists, or mind maps. By doing so, you will be able to organize your learning process and manage your time and resources effectively.

3 Seek relevant resources and support

The third step of self-directed learning is to seek and select the most relevant and reliable resources and support for your learning goals. You can use various sources and platforms to access and evaluate the quality and credibility of the information and guidance you need, such as online courses, books, articles, podcasts, videos, blogs, forums, or social media. By doing so, you will be able to enrich your knowledge and skills and expand your network and perspectives.

4 Engage in active and meaningful learning

The fourth step of self-directed learning is to engage in active and meaningful learning activities that challenge you, stimulate you, and connect you with others. You can use different modes and methods to engage in active and meaningful learning, such as reading, writing, listening, speaking, watching, doing, collaborating, or creating. By doing so, you will be able to deepen your understanding and application of the concepts and practices you learn and enhance your motivation and satisfaction.

6 Reflect on your outcomes and improvement

The sixth and final step of self-directed learning is to reflect on your outcomes and improvement at the end of your learning process and celebrate your success and growth. You can use various tools and methods to reflect on your outcomes and improvement, such as reflection questions, SWOT analysis, feedback summaries, or testimonials. By doing so, you will be able to evaluate your learning experience and impact and plan your next steps and goals.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?