Supported self-learning

The methodology of supported self-learning is learner-centred i.e. the learner is responsible for his/her progress and develops its own learning and problem-solving strategy. This methodology has a higher degree of flexibility as the learner decides on the time, the place and the pace of learning. On the other hand, the tutor models, mediates and explains, redirects focus and provides options. The tutor coaches learners and in general supports them through the learning process by providing feedback, self-learning material and an evaluation system. It should be noted that the materials used for self-learning should allow independent study and should be well prepared, motivating and properly structured in the following: objectives, content, tasks and self-assessment exercises, answer keys and motivating and facilitating learning elements.

The main goals of the supported self-learning methodology are described below:

	Encourage the learner to learn autonomously, according to one’s own interests, needs, pace, and time availability.
	Individualise learning paths and pace, according to knowledge, skills and competences previously acquired by the individual learner.
	Allow greater interaction between tutors and learners, as it is a learner-centred scenario.
	Encourage confident and continuous personal use of ICT for flexible learning.

Self-learning implies that learning is self-paced. Learners learn through an engaging and instructionally sound way, which involves high degree of interactivity. Self-paced courses include various activities such as labs, quizzes, concept builders, simulations etc. designed to keep the learner engaged in the learning process. In a self-learning activity each learner is an individual, which learns differently and acquires knowledge at different rates. The learner has a different background and specific knowledge and skills gap.

As far as the learning content is concerned, a self-learning model provides multiple learning modalities, i.e. self-paced learning resources in modular structure, reference materials for additional knowledge, assessment tests that allow learner to implement self-assessment exercises.