As society adapts to the new challenges of the 21st century, it is important to reform educational processes in order to maximize the potential growth and development of each successive generation. Gone are the days of one-size-fits all educational standards; now, educators are recognizing the benefits of more adaptable and highly-customized instructional methods. Among the most successful new
. approaches is the Autonomous Learner Model, which is a program that focuses on the individual by creating a more flexible and unique curriculum for each individual student. This helps each student explore the subject matter in the way most suitable for their own learning processes and development patterns by allowing him or her to engage the material in the way that best meets his or her cognitive, emotional and social needs. While the Autonomous Learner Model was initially only applied to secondary learning settings, recent experiments have proven it is also suitable for earlier primary educational settings. The model adheres to some foundational principles by recognizing a few major dimensions, the first of which is orientation. This dimension focuses on the need to recognize educational opportunities as they arise and determining the best method for students to approach them (for instance, in individual study or in group projects). The second dimension involves individual development, which embraces the practice of introspection and assessing personal skills. This proves especially helpful in developing familiarity and proficiency with new forms of technology. The third dimension is enrichment, which focuses on social aspects of education and the development of positive values, such as community service. The fourth dimension is seminars. This step allows students to develop cooperation skills by coordinating efforts to resolve common problems or achieve a common objective. The fifth dimension involves individual study. Here, students learn from individual assessment, mentorships and presentation projects in order to develop confidence and a greater communication proficiency. http://www.kisser.net.au/pdeo/peac/page8.html or http://nmgifted.org/ALM/intro.html
