Independent study is another type of student-centered learning. Most independent study courses or activities are designed by the student and presented to the instructor, who will serve as a facilitator and evaluator. The design of an independent study course follows many of the same steps as any learning activity. Four recommended steps include:
- Assess readiness to learn. The student needs basic skills to proceed to an independent study with limited supervision.
- Establish the learning activity. The steps in preparing the learning activity closely follow the general guidelines presented in this unit for any learning activity.
- Engage in the learning process. Complete the steps planned in the learning activity.
- Set goals for the learning activity.
- Establish learning activities.
- Set a timeline.
- Devise an evaluation process.
- List required resource materials.
- State grading process/policy.
- Create a meeting schedule with an advisor/facilitator.
- Evaluate the learning. The student must reflect on the activities completed and the learning that occurred. The evaluation may also involve the facilitator of the learning process with grading if that is established in the learning process plan.
