Self-Regulated Learning
A great education prepares students for success in life after compulsory schooling; it strengthens their ability to set goals, to think critically, and to function within the lines of society, but most of all it sets them up to be proficient self-regulators. At an early age, self-regulation skills develop on an emotional level. Children learn (some at a faster rate than others) what their emotions mean and what the appropriate reaction to such feelings ought to be. As they grow older, children and adolescents learn how to make good choices and to reflect on the effects, or the consequences, of their choices. Finally, as adolescents and young adults students learn to regulate their own learning. Through this self-regulation they are able to set and follow-through with goals, apply critical thinking, and to be the part of society they wish to be. Every child deserves a high quality and engaging education, but it's a well-known fact that the education we offer our children isn't yet where we'd like it to be. Encouraging self-regulated learning practices in schools just may be one way to get us closer.
What is self-regulated learning?
SRL is "learning that occurs largely from the influence of students' self-generated thoughts, feelings, strategies, and behaviors which are oriented toward the attainment of goals" (Schunk).
Fast-Facts about SRL
What is self-regulated learning?
SRL is "learning that occurs largely from the influence of students' self-generated thoughts, feelings, strategies, and behaviors which are oriented toward the attainment of goals" (Schunk).
Fast-Facts about SRL
- Self-regulated learners are meta-cognitive, motivated, and strategic
- The best approach to introducing self-regulated learning is through direct instruction followed by teacher and student-peer modeling
- There are three phases of self-regulation: forethought, performance control, and self- reflection
- Being a skillful self-regulator ensures a higher level of intrinsic motivation
- Focus and mindfulness go hand-in-hand with self-regulation
Resources
Want a straight-forward introduction to SRL and a plethora of strategies to share with students? Check out this YouTube video by Bayan Q.! Here is an in-depth webcast on self-regulation and its role in effective learning. Due to the length and breadth of information, it may be best served as a resource for current or pre-service teachers. |
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This paper titled, "Encouraging Self-Regulated Learning in the Classroom: A Review of the Literature," is an overview of recent literature covering topics ranging from self-regulation motivation, strategies, and challenges.
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Here is a PowerPoint highlighting different theories of motivation. It would be a great presentation to share with high school and college students.
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This podcast discusses why it's important for children to learn to self-regulate and to focus.
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This page provides a great lesson for students on making good decisions at home, at school, and in after school sports. It's suited for grades 6-8 and includes a 38 page workbook.
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This resource includes background information, research, and phases of self-regulated learning, as well as 6 lesson plans on self-regulated learning for students (see section 10)
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*The work in this section utilizes portions of an assignment from ED 561, "Advanced Educational Psychology," from Spring Term of 2015
*Image Credit: "Centro Studi Metallo." NetCMS. 2015. Web. 12 June 2015.
*Image Credit: "Centro Studi Metallo." NetCMS. 2015. Web. 12 June 2015.