With the rapid development of the internet and technology, the key to surviving in today's ever-changing society lies in self-learning ability. The Association for the Promotion of Self-Directed Learning in Taiwan held the "Self-Directed Learning and Self-Learning Ability Development Academic Seminar" on December 7, 2023. The event invited multiple experts and professors to share their insights, aiming to contribute to the promotion of self-learning ability.

 

The seminar began with a presentation by Dr. Tsai Ming-xue, Director of the National Academy for Educational Research, on the topic of "Development Plan for Reading Self-Learning Ability for 4th Grade Elementary Students". Dr. Tsai Ming-xue and Dr. Chen Yu-xin conducted an empirical study on the development of reading self-learning ability for 4th-grade students at Longpu Elementary School.

This study, which ran from September 2022 to June 2023, involved twice-weekly reading education courses for 29 students participating in the plan. The students wrote KUMON-style Mandarin Chinese materials, and the results showed that their post-test scores were significantly higher than those of non-participating students, proving the effectiveness of the plan. Additionally, weekly reading hours and reading preferences were identified as key factors influencing reading ability. Dr. Tsai also reminded attendees that online reading is a global trend, and strategies for reading education should undergo transformation to align with future trends.

 

The second research report was presented by Dr. Xie Ming-juan of the National Academy for Educational Research, focusing on "Mathematics Self-Learning Ability Development Experiment for 7th Grade Students". This study aimed to explore how to enhance middle school students' active mathematics learning habits and overall capabilities through experimental teaching.

From September 2022 to June 2023, 23 7th-grade students participated in a 10-month KUMON-style mathematics course. The results showed significant progress in students of varying levels. Not only did their mathematical skills improve, but they also gained a sense of accomplishment and confidence. Dr. Xie further suggested that this course could be incorporated into schools' flexible learning hours in the future, as it could have long-term benefits for students' learning.

 

The final report of the seminar was delivered by Associate Professor Zhou Tian-ci from the Department of Special Education, National Taipei University of Education, on "Self-Learning Ability and Core Competencies". Given that the 108 National Curriculum Guidelines have been in effect for three years, but there is little mention of "self-learning ability," Professor Zhou conducted this research to explore the relationship between self-learning ability and core competencies in the 108 Curriculum.

In his report, Professor Zhou emphasized that core competencies refer to the knowledge, skills, and attitudes a person should possess to adapt to present and future challenges. The core competencies in the 12-year national basic education system focus on being a "lifelong learner." While core competencies are the educational objectives, self-learning ability serves as the driving force for lifelong progress, making both crucial for lifelong learning. Professor Zhou suggested that future efforts should focus on exploring, understanding, and promoting self-learning ability, aiming to nurture self-learning skills in every individual.

 

Self-learning ability is the foundation of all learning. The seminar's three insightful presentations aim to inspire the attendees and continue the association's efforts in relevant research and promotion. The goal is to help everyone develop the ability and capacity for diverse learning and development, ensuring their adaptability and survival in the future!