METAPHORS FOR REFLECTION ON MY OWN IDEAS ABOUT THE CONCEPT OF SELF-STUDY

Abstract

This article presents the results of the training series «Designing self-study» from the project «Ukraine Digital: Ensuring study success in times of crisis». It includes metaphors to reflect on the concept of self-study (such as enjoying a delicious meal, navigating an ocean alone in a small boat, building your own path in the forest, growing your own garden, and forging a sword). The questions addressed include the role lecturers play in designing self-study components in the hybrid learning environment, the negative effects that can manifest themselves as a result of too much self-study in the learning process, and how lecturers can minimise these, etc. Although self-study has its advantages, it can have negative effects if students feel unsupported or struggle with independent learning. These negative effects include excessive demands on resources, lack of structure, lack of external support, student overload, lack of motivation and discipline, inequalities in learning pace, technical challenges, and time management problems. The author summarises her experiences in designing self-study components. The paper discusses different approaches to address the challenges of self-paced teaching and learning. These include setting clear guidelines and expectations, providing diverse learning resources, offering regular support and feedback, promoting peer learning, adapting to different learning paces, being flexible, encouraging self-reflection and assessment, using technology appropriately, and continuously evaluating and adapting. The incorporation of self-study into educational settings necessitates meticulous preparation and assistance to guarantee that learners can fully exploit its advantages.