2016 Annual Conference

As Self-Directed Learning expands into different disciplines, we need to assess where we have been, where we are, and where we are going. This panel discussion will include a conversation about SDL history by experts in the field, an analysis of recent research, and a discussion of future directions.

Self-directed learning researchers and practitioners will be most interested in this session as they will gain new insights into the recent research in the field as well as contribute to the discussion. Graduate students, especially those in adult education, and adult educators in general will also find the panel discussion enlightening.

As the field of self-directed learning expands into different disciplines and we reflect on our rich tapestry of adult learning, there is a need to assess where we have been, where we are, and where we are going in relation to SDL and the Adult Education field more broadly. Furthermore, we need to reflect upon adult educators’ contributions to the field and plan how we will continue to be an integral part of that conversation. The importance of this panel discussion is best supported by Brockett’s (2009) statement that, “Although we have made important inroads toward understanding the phenomenon of SDL, many important questions remain. Thus, instead of abandoning this line of research, I believe there is much to be gained from revitalizing and expanding scholarship on self-directed learning” (p. 38). Therefore, this panel discussion will begin with a conversation about SDL history by experts in the field. Next, there will be an analysis of recent research and the trends emerging in the literature and practice. Finally, the panel and attendees will discuss future directions of SDL research and the exciting new horizons yet to be explored.