.svg)
Prisma is the world’s most engaging virtual school that combines a fun, real-world curriculum with powerful mentorship from experienced coaches and a supportive peer community
Dating back to the ancient Greeks, self-directed learning (SDL) has been a part of the education landscape since the 1970s. A cornerstone of learning approaches like the popular Montessori method, self-directed learning theory centers the learner in every element of their education, from the choice of topic to the execution to the assessment.
However, despite what the name might suggest, the self-directed learner is not expected to be hidden, alone, under a pile of books at the library. True, the teacher-student relationship is dramatically different from the top-down model of the senior expert filling the inexperienced listener with knowledge, but that doesn’t mean there is no form of adult guidance. Similarly, peers have a role to play in SDL, but the learner sets the terms of that dynamic, by seeking out collaboration and feedback from classmates; an instructor doesn’t tell them when to do it, or how.
There has been a lot of research on self-directed learning over the last half century (see below for a few well-respected texts on the topic). These seven points from the International Encyclopedia of Education provide the basic premises:
1) Self-direction is about learner empowerment. Part of the process is to help each learner take more and more responsibility for various aspects of their education.
2) Self-direction is not all or nothing. In any learning situation there will be various degrees of self-direction.
3) Self-direction does not require isolation. It involves independent work but can also happen in group settings and classrooms.
4) Self-directed learning equips students to transfer their knowledge and skills to diverse contexts.
5) Self-directed study can involve different educational activities: independent reading and writing, study groups, and internships.
6) Teachers can play a role in incorporating self-directed approaches to student learning, for example, engaging in conversations with learners, gathering materials, assessing work and encouraging critical thinking.
7) Self-directed study can happen in schools: independent studies and non-traditional course offerings can all be part of the SDL approach.
Ask yourself: What are your goals? Are you running toward a specific end-point or away from an educational environment that doesn’t meet your child’s learning needs or learning style? Do they want to go on to higher education, enter a specific profession, develop transferrable skills or engage in lifelong learning?
Any — or all — of these goals (and more!) can be achieved with SDL, but your specific intention will help set parameters on this open-ended approach.
Ideally, during the process, the learner’s discoveries will inspire the evolution of their goals. Still, in order to take productive detours, keep checking in with your why — and, of course, your child’s.
Approaches to self-directed adult education (known in scientific circles as andragogy) differ dramatically from the science of elementary, middle or even high school education (known as pedagogy), where learners are still developing the self-discipline and self-awareness necessary to handle the decision making that comes along with complete freedom.
If you keep in mind that self-directed learning is a continuum, the real question is: how ready is my child and how much guidance do they need? In other words, how do I choose developmentally appropriate learning strategies? Rather than take a trial and error approach, Dr. Lucy M. Guglielmino’s self-assessment known as the Self-Directed Learning Readiness Scale (SDLRS), can serve as a baseline.
While some adult learners can shoulder the entire personal responsibility of self-education, most kids won’t thrive in front of a total blank slate. If you tell kids, “Off you go, do whatever you want,” they’re likely to be overwhelmed.
Instead, as we have learned through many iterations of curriculum development at Prisma, self-directed learning with scaffolding creates a healthy balance, providing a structure to channel their intrinsic motivation. For Prismarians, those “guardrails” come into play at different moments in each learning cycle, as our learning coaches provide big-picture themes, an ample library of resources, and several directions each child can take for a given learning project.
An independent learner needs access to three things as part of this scaffolding: a problem to solve, materials to help them solve it, and feedback along the way. Our six-week Prisma cycles start with an overarching theme that learners explore from many different angles for the first two weeks. During this exploration phase, we give them access to curated materials - articles, podcasts, videos, infographics or interactive games - and let them choose the ones that resonate within these boundaries. Then, to give them a taste of the bigger project to come, they test out mini projects, as a way to gauge their interest before getting in too deep.
In addition to the library of materials, independent learners need to know where they can find help along the way: teachers, coaches, mentors, peers — even online experts to whom they can (with your guidance) reach out. Let them know who is available to help them with what sort of issues, and then step back and let them learn to ask for what they need. (This will also be a learning process, so you may want to schedule feedback sessions until they get into the swing of things.)
Project- or problem-based learning (PBL) lends itself well to the self-directed approach. Starting from a relevant theme, like climate change, you can help them engage the topic from their area of interest: they could design an eco-friendly building, write a futurist fiction short story set in a world impacted by rising tides, develop a public relations campaign to protect endangered species, or research and fundraise for a cause.
Because they are connected to real-world issues, project-based learning activities naturally tend to be interdisciplinary. That means whatever students choose, they’ll not only be building on their strengths, they’ll also be learning skills they might have neglected in a traditional classroom. The kid who hates math worksheets might be more willing to do calculations that allow them to present a scaled model of their green tower of the future.
Keeping in mind your big-picture why, think about what constitutes success for your independent learning experience. On the one hand, you’ll want to make sure each project has clear learning objectives, such as general skills or areas of knowledge to master (we do this at Prisma with badges). On the other hand, you’ll want to let them set their own learning goals, while also ensuring that they are stretching themselves appropriately. When they set their own goals, we find it creates a sense of ownership, so they’ll be more likely to follow through on them (or reflect honestly about why they didn’t hit the mark).
Self-regulated learning doesn’t happen according to a schedule, so let go of expectations about a “normal” school day or "grade-level” progress.
When kids get excited about a certain topic, and they’re having the kind of “hard fun” at the center of our philosophy, they very well might not want to move on to something else when the calendar says it’s time to move on.
That’s a great sign. Our learners change themes every six weeks, but when their coaches see them committed to developing a specific skill or honing a certain passion, they find a way to facilitate that, into the next cycle — whether it’s by incorporating that passion into the new theme or encouraging them to pursue it as an extracurricular.
Even for less open-ended subjects like math where there is a linear skill progression, we use self-pacing apps to allow kids control of the speed of their journey — and accelerate or slow down depending on how they feel.
Remember, self-directed learning is not a desert island experience. Your role — especially if you are homeschooling your child with this approach — is to be their guardrails to set the project in motion, cheer them on, and ask them the kinds of questions that will allow them to implement solutions. Part of problem solving is — inevitably — hitting dead-ends and trying again. Once you’re sure they have the resources to get themselves on course, resist the urge to intervene.
Ultimately, self-directed learning, when done with developmentally appropriate guardrails, will help your child master fundamental critical thinking skills and subject matter knowledge, all while building a mindset that will set them up for lifelong learning.
For more on self-directed learning, see:
Want to learn more about how Prisma can empower your child to thrive?
Talk with usTalk with usMiddle School Curriculum Designer Lizzie uses her diverse experiences: studying Literature at Harvard, leading outdoor adventure expeditions, and teaching high school English, to help Prisma learners find their voices.
The pandemic has made homeschooling easier than ever before with a boom of online options from curriculum, to part-time programs, to full-time schools. But which is best for your family?
Prisma High School’s Launchpad Program will prepare learners to tackle their next phase, be it college, training, or an exciting career. Trevor Baker, our LaunchPad program designer, describes how he sets learners up for success.
You might have to jump in at first. But eventually, with the right modeling and practice, kids can develop the skills to make thoughtful decisions.
Middle School Curriculum Designer Gabe, an expert in interdisciplinary learning with a PhD from the University of Michigan, explains how he designs themes that blend together STEM and literacy.
One of the most fun parts of being a homeschooling parent is creating fun learning experiences for your kiddos! In this post, we share our favorite at-home activities and online resources.
Our Head of Middle School Curriculum explains how her team blends core subjects and real-world topics to design “hard fun” cycle themes.
One of the reasons our team wanted to develop a new kind of school was because we felt traditional schooling doesn’t put enough emphasis on developing emotionally intelligent kids. But what is emotional intelligence and how do you develop it?
"Carolyn is a miracle worker in math. Piper's attitude towards math has improved so much this year. It's never been her favorite subject but Carolyn's patience and encouragement has made such a positive impact." -Alexia A., Prisma parent
Media literacy is touted as one of the most important “21st century skills” for kids to master, in line with creativity, communication, and grit. Thinking through the amount of time most of us spend interacting with some form of media each day makes a good case for this.
“Lauren is fantastic and has struck a nice balance of connecting with Cooper and keeping him on task. I'm impressed to see real growth in Cooper around self awareness, reflecting on his “glows and grows,” and goal setting.” -Kym J., Prisma parent
“I've seen growth in my kids, and most importantly a solid relationship between them and their coaches. We feel so grateful for these amazing humans that have entered our kids' lives. My kids' words exactly: ‘These teachers actually want to be here. They really care!’ ” -Katie M., Parent in Kimberly’s Cohort
By introducing these concepts at home, you're setting your child up to be more financially responsible and savvy, giving them the tools to navigate an increasingly complex financial world.
“I’m so happy to have an opportunity to call out Javi. As a math educator myself I am really impressed with how he presents math concepts, differentiates for and challenges learners as needed. From a social-emotional perspective he is so kind, patient and invested in the kids as a whole. I am so happy he is Brynn’s math coach.” -Chandra S., Prisma parent
The ability to tolerate frustration is not merely about weathering the storm of the moment, but about instilling the persistence, adaptability, and resilience that set your child up for future success.
“We are eternally grateful for Prisma and the wonderful people who work there - especially the coaches - whose patience and expertise make our kids feel seen and heard and loved while also coaching them to learn knowledge and skills.” -Ashley S., Parent in Angie’s cohort
We are thrilled to announce that Prisma has earned accreditation from the Cognia Global Education Commission.
Online program? Good old-fashioned workbooks? A mix? Let’s help you unpack the options.
"Thank you for the bottom of our hearts for showing Story what it means to show up and do the hard work.” -Jenna W, Prisma Parent
.png)
Your unique way of processing the world brings with it challenges and rewards that color your parenting journey.
“Kristi sent Madeline a little note saying how much she likes seeing Madeline everyday, and Madeline grinned from ear to ear. Certainly a nice reminder of how different the relationship has been between coach and student compared to what we saw in public school.” -Pamela D., Prisma Parent
Many people assume advanced intellectual ability sets kids up for success in school, so when gifted kids struggle, it can be confusing for educators and parents.
“Despite Levi’s frustrations with science in the past, he had the most ambitious projects for Anne’s class. I love that she was able to inspire him!” -Joy J., Prisma parent
“Cindy is AMAZING! I’m so blown away by her accommodations, reprioritizing Parker’s to do lists, and always providing tons of encouragement. I’m knocked off my socks everytime I overhear her doing anything, really.” -Priscilla W., Prisma Parent
The first big surprise for me was the amazing team I would get to help me. I didn’t feel so alone when it came to supporting my kids' academic education.
“Natalie is so amazing and Karl has become very close with her. This year has seen Karl expand in his learning very much." -Anna H., Prisma parent
“Gwyn has been so wonderful to Jack. She is so relatable and authentic and really kind. She immediately bonded with him, and has really given him the freedom to be creative and take risks. She has made education and the whole "school experience" a safe place for him. With her support and encouragement, she has really made him thrive.” -Wren W., Prisma parent
How do you make sure the projects you design for your learners or homeschoolers are more than just volunteering, but meaningful learning opportunities?
In this blog post, we’ll explain what “school refusal” really means, possible causes of school refusal, and why rates might be rising. We’ll also share concrete strategies you can try if your child is struggling. You are not alone!
All kids need to learn these important cognitive skills, but kids with ADHD and autism might struggle more
Our favorite processes and activities for helping kids achieve their dreams
“If opportunity doesn’t knock, build a door.” -Milton Berle
How kids can design projects that solve real-world problems
Falling in Love with Science
There are plenty of ways that homeschoolers make friends and engage with their peers, while still reaping the benefits of a homeschool education.
Tools to build self-awareness and resilience
The real world isn’t divided into school subjects. Learn how we design our interdisciplinary curriculum.
Explore the importance of education for children’s overall development and get practical tips for convincing your kids of its importance.
The Superpower that Turns Kids into Lifelong Learners
What would it look like if school prepared us for life?
Why is it that in a world of unprecedented technological advances and time-saving innovations, we seem to be busier than ever before?
Imaginative play isn’t just for preschoolers. Here’s how to spark your child’s imagination.
Engaging kids in the kitchen goes beyond food preparation. Here’s how to incorporate cooking into your weekly lesson plans.
The job landscape is shifting before our eyes. Here’s how to help kids navigate future career choices.
If your child has doubts, here’s how to help them get to a “yes.”
With adolescent mental health in crisis, here’s how to support your high school student’s well-being.
At its core, creativity is the expression of our most essential human qualities: our curiosity, our inventiveness, and our desire to explore the unknown.
The concept of critical thinking can seem vast and abstract. But one of the most meaningful ways you can start to tackle it is by rethinking the role of the teacher.
Imagine your child exploring new countries, meeting people from different cultures, and gaining a deep understanding of the world in a way that simply isn't possible in traditional education.
Unstick your child’s creativity, stretch their thinking, and improve their writing skills with topics that tap into their passions.
I never expected to find a family within my child’s school, but the leadership, teachers, parents and kids have become friends for life
Homeschooling can be overwhelming for parents. Here's how to recognize the signs of burnout & concrete solutions.
What’s behind your child’s complaint — and what to do about it.
If building social skills has been a bumpy road for your kid, here’s how to help them form healthy friendships.
The homeschool day can be quite efficient, compared to a typical public school day. Then, their school work completed, kids have plenty of time for extracurriculars, hobbies, unstructured play and generally... fun.
Possibly. But here’s what to do first.
To instill life-long healthy eating habits, take a hands-on approach
.png)
Distance learning doesn’t have to be a drag. Here’s how Prisma creates a community-centered online learning environment.
Distance learning is gaining popularity. Here’s what you need to know about online learning for high school students.
A bridge into high school, middle school is the time to prepare for independent learning. Here’s how to set the stage.
ADHD is only one reason for a short attention span. Find the cause, then try these tips for helping your child focus.
There’s no roadmap to develop a true passion — but here are ways to make the journey more fruitful.
Kristen Shroff is an experienced educational leader who has been with Prisma from the very beginning, first as a Founding Curriculum Designer & then as Head of School. Now, as CEO, she will lead Prisma into its next stage of growth.
Meet Claire Cummings, our Head of Middle School. Claire started out as a beloved Learning Coach in our middle school program before transitioning to the Head of School role in January 2023! She is based in Detroit, Michigan.
From making a meal to balancing a budget, here’s how to help teens learn to thrive in the real world.
In our Meet the Team blog series, you’ll get to read more about the innovative thinkers behind Prisma. Next up is Emily Veno, one of Prisma's Founding Curriculum Designers. After two years focused on building Prisma's middle school curriculum, in her new role as Head of Learning Innovation she works across both the middle & high school programs.
In our Meet the Team blog series, you’ll get to read more about the innovative thinkers behind Prisma. Next up is Leena Williams, the Lead Coach & Curriculum Designer in our new high school program.
Get to the bottom of your child’s apathy and help them find their ‘why.’
At Prisma, we believe the families and learners who like to call themselves Prismarians—are our ‘secret sauce’! Here we highlight one of our favorite stories from the Prisma community
.png)
From national parks to beach vacations, design an in-the-field learning experience the whole family will enjoy
Online learning takes many forms. Decide why you want to go remote — and the rest will fall into place.
Here’s how parents of ADHD children can set themselves up for successful learning at home.
Online learning doesn’t have to be distracting. These tips can prime your child to thrive at home.
From early childhood through high school, homeschooling provides the ideal setting to facilitate a gifted child’s learning. Here’s how.
And how can you support them in the classroom?
From fostering a love of learning to developing problem-solving skills, child-initiated learning is a pillar of a successful homeschooling journey. Here’s how to get started.
Focus on number sense and you’ll help your child add math skills to their toolkit.
Combine fun with a pinch of self-discipline, and you’ll be well on your way to a wellness routine your child wants to follow.
Kids need to develop their own world as they mature. But the stereotype of the zip-lipped pre-teen doesn’t have to be your reality.
It’s not easy to juggle full-time work and homeschooling — but it is possible. Here’s what we’ve learned about how to thrive.
Learning languages opens doors, offers connections and inspires new ways of thinking. Here’s some advice about which one(s) to pick.
Critical thinking matters for academics, work and relationships. Here’s how to lay the foundations at home.
Read about the hands-on learning opportunities one Prisma high schooler tackled in the Secrets of the Biosphere theme
Creative thinking is the key to problem-solving. Here’s how to foster creativity at home.
Traditional four-year college is only one option. Here’s how to inform your decision.
The Montessori approach focuses on early childhood. Here’s how the popular pedagogical method can lend itself to home-based learning for all ages.
Here’s what parents need to know about the popular social media network.
Here’s what every parent should know about facilitating a routine that works for the whole family.
Hands-on learning benefits all students. Here’s how to incorporate it into your homeschooling.
There’s no evidence to confirm the validity of these popular labels. But here’s how auditory learning strategies can benefit everyone.
Although no studies link these popular labels to academic achievement, here’s how visual learning helps everyone.
Here’s what parents need to know about the free, popular chat app.
Incorporate these reading tips into your routine, and you’ll be on your way to fostering a love of reading in your child.
Ready to Deck the Halls? Here are projects to engage kids of all ages—and tackle your seasonal shopping with DIY keepsakes.
More than just asking questions in the classroom, the Socratic Method helps learners test their own ideas in a real-life context.
Here are some guidelines to help sift through the infinite options.
With built-in lesson plans, educational tools, and endless problem-solving opportunities, Minecraft: Education Edition can help motivate kids in coding, science, language arts, and more.
