Cognitive specialist Dalena van der Westhuizen responds to a parent's question about the best technology for self-directed learning. She highlights four powerful and mostly free platforms that empower students to learn at their own pace, fostering creativity and organisation in a homeschooling environment.
Linda Asks: What Tech Can I Use for Self-Directed Learning?
“Is there technology you would recommend that can help my child in self-directed learning?” – Linda Halgreen
Dalena’s Recommended Tools for Self-Directed Learning
Hi Linda,
That’s a great question. Equipping your child with the right tools is a big step in fostering independent study habits. While I’m not an expert in self-directed learning, there are several excellent technologies that parents and educators highly recommend.
This kind of homeschooling technology can empower children to take charge of their own education. Here are a few standout platforms:
- For Comprehensive Subjects: A top recommendation is Khan Academy, a fantastic free online platform. It offers instructional videos and practice exercises across a huge range of subjects. This allows children to learn at their own pace and explore topics that interest them deeply.
- For Language Skills: Consider Duolingo, which turns language learning into a fun, gamified process. It’s self-paced and an engaging way to build new language skills, which is a great activity for brain development.
- For Coding and Creativity: To introduce creative problem-solving and coding, look at Scratch. It’s a visual programming language where children can create their own stories, games, and animations, helping develop both creativity and technical skills.
- For Organisation: For keeping learning materials and assignments in order, Google Classroom is a practical tool to consider.
Extra Information
These tools are excellent for promoting learner autonomy. However, the role of the parent in self-directed learning remains important. It shifts from being a teacher to being a facilitator. You can help your child set goals, manage their time, and reflect on what they have learned. It is also good to balance screen time with hands-on projects, reading, and outdoor activities to ensure well-rounded development.
Using the right educational technology for students can unlock a new level of engagement and independence in your child’s learning journey. These platforms offer a starting point to make education more personalised and enjoyable.
What are your favourite free learning platforms for kids? Share your recommendations in the comments below, and don’t forget to subscribe to our weekly newsletter for more helpful tips.