Autodidacticism

Autodidacticism is self-directed learning, also called self-education. The page says it differs from informal learning, can happen at almost any point in life, and is often supported by libraries, educational websites, teachers, family, friends, and community. It also ties the topic to learning theory, educational research, philosophy, and psychology.

Reading notes

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• The term comes from Greek roots meaning “self” and “teaching.”
• It is described as “learning on your own” or “by yourself.”
• It is usually complemented by formal and informal learning.
• Successful self-teaching needs self-discipline and reflective ability.
• Modern education is said to use more self-study, independent work, inquiry-based learning, and discovery learning.
• The Industrial Revolution and later secular societies expanded opportunities for scientific learning outside traditional universities.
• The article points to the rise of the World Wide Web, Wikipedia, Udacity, and Khan Academy as part of this broader shift.
• Historical and literary examples include Hayy Ibn-Yaqzan, African American self-education under slavery and segregation, Martin Eden, The Ignorant Schoolmaster, Good Will Hunting, Criminal Minds, The Elegance of the Hedgehog, and Ekalavya in the Mahabharata.
• In architecture, several notable architects are presented as self-taught, while professional regulation limits who can practice and register.
• The page says all architects must keep learning to follow new standards, regulations, and methods.
• Future-facing discussion focuses on distance learning, cyber school, and self-directed online learning guided by a facilitator.