Tutoring Helps Foster Self-Directed Learning

A lot has been written lately about the importance of self-directed learning. Students who fail to take ownership for their education do not grow; “Spoon feeding in the long run teaches us nothing but the shape of the spoon.”  (E.M.  Forster)  However, students who continually ask questions, pursue answers, interact with the material, and take responsibility for their own learning develop critical thinking and analysis skills that shape them into lifelong learners. Tutoring can be a valuable tool in shaping self-directed learners.  Tutors can help students master basic skills so that they are confident enough to pursue a topic on a higher level. They also work with students to develop study skills, organization systems, and learning habits that translate to lasting success.  Tutoring does not enable; it empowers students toward greater success.  If you’d like to read more about the benefits of being an independent learner, you can check out this article.

Blog post by Laura Simon, High School English teacher, Oak Hills High School