September 2024 News Abingdon Independent learning, also known as ‘self-directed learning’ or ‘autonomous learning’, is vital for academic success and employability. Dr Graham Gardner, Librarian and EPQ coordinator at Abingdon, discusses how the library supports independent learning for young people. How the Library helps facilitate independent learning Firstly, it offers a learning space designed with students in mind. Consequently, it does not insist that students study in silence. Rather, it is divided into distinct learning zones, ranging from clusters of small circular tables for collaborative learning to a silent study room, so students can choose the most effective approach for them. The library also enables students to choose from a wide range of learning resources. That includes books - close to 20,000 at the last count - and high quality digital resources that aren’t available on the open internet. Access to high quality information resources is integral to the development of independent learning, and I am continuously reviewing, revising and updating the library’s provision. Students can take advantage of numerous charging points, a high speed colour printer - they can even borrow a Chromebook if they forget their own. Finally, students can seek the help of the librarian (me) and assistant librarians. We work proactively to help them take charge of their own learning. In Lower School, this comes in the form of ‘reading and research’ lessons but, for older students, my teaching supports independent project work. This includes the A Level Geography NEA, the A Level History essay, entries for external essay competitions and the Extended Project Qualification (EPQ). The EPQ, which I coordinate, is a great way for Sixth Formers to develop and demonstrate their capacity for independent learning. Students propose, plan and realise their own project, which will involve either answering a question or constructing an ‘artefact’. Students enjoy a lot of freedom and success rests heavily on genuine curiosity, a high degree of self-organisation and tenacity. My role is to help students develop the skills they need, such as for planning their project, finding appropriate resources and writing their research report. These are skills which will serve them well at university and beyond - where independent learning will come into its own. For me, independent learning happens when a student purposefully takes key aspects of the learning process into their own hands. Crucially, it does not mean working alone and with no help; it includes working collaboratively with peers and seeking out appropriate sources of support and advice. What is independent learning? 28 Independent learning is associated with a range of benefits, ranging from higher academic performance to greater self-confidence, creativity, flexibility, resilience and awareness of core strengths and important limitations. All of these help students realise their potential (whether that’s in an exam, a job, or a relationship); forge their own path in life; and contribute effectively to the society and communities of which they are part. Why is it important? How does the library support independent learning? Abingdon School Library encourages and facilitates independent learning in a number of ways.
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