The Playbook for Self-Directed Learning

“What if young people could follow their passions, design their learning, and organize their schooling in ways that helped them flourish as humans and as citizens? In this book, experienced educators who are national leaders in the field of self-directed learning offer us a soup-to-nuts guide in how to make this dream a reality. Chockful of examples, suffused with wisdom, and forthright about challenges, this hopeful yet practical book shows us both why and how students can be put in charge of their own learning. A must read for anyone who wants to transform industrial model schools into places of purpose and passion for both students and adults.” —Jal Mehta, Professor of Education, Harvard Graduate School of Education “I am excited to endorse The Playbook for Self-Directed Learning by Dr. Tyler Thigpen, Dr. Caleb Collier, Amber Bryant, and Brittney Toles. This guide offers transformative strategies for fostering student agency and self-direction, essential for today's evolving educational landscape. By emphasizing the importance of supportive relationships, student choice, and purposeful struggle, this book equips educators with the tools to create environments where students can take charge of their learning and develop the skills needed for lifelong success. The detailed techniques and real-world examples make it an invaluable resource for anyone committed to transforming education and promoting student agency.” —Caroline Vander Ark, CEO, Getting Smart Collective