1. www.abdn.ac.uk/alsu Self-directed Learners Dr Sara Preston

2. www.abdn.ac.uk/alsu Academic Learning & Study Unit (ALSU) – what do we do? Support student learning by providing: Study Skills Workshops (generic) Advice sessions Online resources In-course skills development

3. www.abdn.ac.uk/alsu Engaging students in the first year Setting students assignments as soon as they arrive at university could help cut dropout rates…integrate students into university life as quickly possible. This involves making them aware of the quality and quantity of work expected from them… The freedom…is too much for some and they probably need more structure in the first year Times Higher, 24/1/03 Reporting on the Student Transition and Retention (STAR) project

4. www.abdn.ac.uk/alsu What are self-directed learners? Diagnose their learning needs Formulate learning goals Identify resources for learning Select and implement learning strategies Evaluate learning outcomes Students who are able to:

5. www.abdn.ac.uk/alsu How can we support the development of such skills? Self-assessment Peer-assessment Self-evaluation By involving them in the learning process, using:

6. www.abdn.ac.uk/alsu Self-assessment Strengths/weaknesses of the work How it could be improved… The grade I think it deserves is… I would like the tutor to comment on… Peer-assessment Marking peers work using model answers Feedback on peers work after appropriate guidance (students identify the criteria) Self-evaluation Reflective questionnaires