ABSTRACT
A significant reason for learning failure at all ages and stages is an inability to learn with increasing independence. In the real-life example of James Scholz, we have an ideal example of prodigious independent learning success, but the chapter explores how such independence is uncommon and indicates that it often requires substantial support for novice learners. The chapter breaks down independent learning as the process of self-regulation. It also challenges the misconception that independent learning is developed by merely offering pupils more time and space to be independent.
By characterising ‘learned industriousness’, the chapter offers guidance to support more pupils to succeed in the same way as James Scholz.
In the second part of the chapter, common issues such as homework are explored, along with key strategies to develop independence, such as ‘naming’, ‘framing’, and ‘sustaining’ strategies. The path to success includes being more explicit about strategies such as ‘structured refection’.
