There are two types of learners: dependent learners and independent learners. Each type of learner has a set of pros and cons. Dependent learners rely on others to provide them with information and guidance, while independent learners are those who take charge of their learning. Dependent learners are often more successful in school because they have someone to help them stay organized and on track. A guide that helps them along their path. However, their reliance on others can potentially make them less self-sufficient. On the other hand, independent learners are often more motivated and self-directed, but they can also be less successful in school because they lack dependent learners' structure. So, which is better? Well, it depends on the individual learner.
Some students do better with the support of a teacher or parent, while others thrive when given the freedom to learn independently.
A dependent learner is often characterized as passive, shy, or timid. They may struggle to assert themselves or take the initiative, preferring to let others take the lead. While this dependence can be seen as a weakness, it can also be viewed as a strength. Dependent learners are often very good at following instructions and working within a team. They excel at taking directions and carrying out tasks that have been assigned to them. This makes them highly valuable employees and team members. But, there are a few potential cons to being a dependent learner:
They may become overly reliant on others for help and guidance. This can make it challenging to take the initiative or be proactive in your learning, and you may feel frustrated if you don't have someone to turn to.
They may struggle when it comes time to take exams or complete assignments if they're not used to working independently.
Being a dependent learner can also mean that you're not as exposed to different viewpoints and perspectives, limiting your ability to think critically about the material you're learning.
An independent learner is someone who takes control of their own learning and isn't afraid to seek new opportunities to grow and develop. One of the essential qualities of an independent learner is their willingness to take initiative. They don't wait for someone else to tell them what they need to do or learn; instead, they proactively seek new challenges and opportunities. This can involve taking on new projects or doing additional research on their own time. In addition to taking the initiative, independent learners are also highly resourceful. They know how to find the necessary information and resources to learn something new.
What type of learner are you?
0%Independent Learner
0%Dependent Learner
Though there are many advantages to being an independent learner, there are also some disadvantages. One con is that it can be challenging to stay motivated. When you're solely responsible for your learning, keeping yourself on track and focused can be tough. Additionally, independent learners can sometimes feel isolated since they're not working with a teacher or other students. This can make it harder to get feedback and support. Finally, independent learners need to be very organized and disciplined to succeed. They need to be able to set goals and create a plan for themselves to make progress.
Both learning styles have their advantages and disadvantages. There is no one answer to which learning style is because it depends on the individual and their type of learner. Dependent learners often do better in traditional school settings with a teacher to help them along the way. Independent learners often do better in online or self-paced learning environments where they can set their own pace and go at their speed.
In conclusion, if we want our students to be successful students, it is crucial to help them understand their learning style. Some students are independent while others are dependent. There is no right or wrong answer, but understanding which type of learner you are can help you tailor your learning methods to suit your needs better. If you are struggling in school, try talking to your teacher or a tutor about how you can adjust your learning style to fit your needs.
Like you, this was something that came across my mind as I wrote this! I think it will some great to explore further in a future post. I feel that we can be both independent and dependent learners, and I think we should be encouraged to become both to build well-rounded individuals. From a leadership perspective, there are times when we must know when to lead and when to follow. Being versed in both dependency and independency is crucial and I think it’s a great trait to instill in our young learners. Nonetheless, it ultimately comes down to what works best for you as an individual learner and the scenario you are faced with! Thanks for the response!
I found this article really interesting. It also has me wondering if someone can be both an independent and dependent learner? Can circumstances and what the learning is about dictate the type of learner I am?