The Autonomous Learner Model
George T. Betts, Robin J. Carey, Blanche M. Kapushion
Abstract
The Autonomous Learner Model incorporates the needs of the whole gifted child, looking at giftedness and potential. The five dimensions of the Autonomous Learner Model are: Orientation, Individual Development, Enrichment, Seminars, and In-Depth Study along the perimeter. Many teachers at the elementary level find it easy to integrate activities from the Orientation Dimension in class meetings, opening or closing activities, or during brain breaks. The Individual Development Dimension of the model provides learners with the opportunity to develop the cognitive, emotional, social, and physical skills, concepts, and attitudes necessary for lifelong learning. When learners engage in the Enrichment Dimension, they have explored their giftedness through the Orientation Dimension and have a foundational understanding of who they are as learners through activities in the Individual Development Dimension. The richness of an In-Depth Study is that it is learner-driven through a proposal process, and the facilitator coaches the learner while the research is conducted.