What Does Independent Study Involve?

by | Last updated on January 24, 2024

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In an independent , you

essentially create your own course on a topic of your choice

, working in concert with your faculty advisor or other COE faculty member. … In some cases, faculty members are willing to have you assist with their research projects or will guide your study on a topic of mutual interest.

What is independent study method?

The independent study method makes

the students responsible for their own learning

. The method obliges students to inquire into a subject and often to integrate knowledge from different disciplines. They develop research skills by having to select, collect, and present information.

What do you do in an independent study?

Independent study is a

form of educational activity undertaken

by an individual student with little to no supervision. A student and their professor will generally agree upon a topic for the student to research with minimal instruction and guidance from the professor for an agreed upon number of academic credits.

How does independent study school work?

An independent study is a class taken by

a student that has much less supervision and direction than

a typical class: you are learning independently. Students often take independent studies to learn about a specific subject not taught in their high school.

What are independent studies examples?

Usually, students look to independent study when they have an interest in a special topic that's not offered at most high schools. Some examples of special topics would be courses like

Asian-American history

, British Literature, or Chinese language.

Does independent study look bad for college?

Colleges don'

t care

if you have one or two tardies, but the admissions committee will definitely make note disciplinary actions like expulsions, suspensions, and academic probation. Colleges want to know you're mature and able to succeed in a rigorous academic environment with a lot of independence.

What are the benefits of independent study?

The review found some evidence of the benefits of independent learning, including: •

improved academic performance

; Page 2 • increased motivation and confidence; • greater student awareness of their limitations and their ability to manage them; • enabling teachers to provide differentiated tasks for students; and • …

When should you do independent study?

If you are looking for something different – a special field experience, a chance to try research, or simply explore a topic in more depth – you should consider doing an independent study

under faculty supervision

.

Is independent study a good option?

Independent study can

be a great option for some pupils

; however, it may not be the right option for every pupil who is not thriving in a regular classroom setting. Some pupils might be better served in an educational option that is classroom-based and offers a smaller learning environment and more individualization.

What are the challenges of independent learning?

The study found out that a

teacher centered approach, lack of using authentic materials, lack of learning goals, lack of confidence, high dependence on teachers, lack of practice in self-assessment and peer assessment

, lack of interest and lack of learning strategies were identified as major challenges.

Do colleges like to see independent studies?

Colleges will see that you're a curious learner with the initiative

to pursue knowledge on your own

. That's pretty impressive! Your research project can strengthen several areas of your application. If your school allows you to do your project for credit, it will show up on your transcript.

How do you organize an independent study?

  1. Write a goal statement/purpose of Independent study. Write a brief description of the background, experience and strengths the student brings to the topic/focus area. …
  2. List course learning objectives. …
  3. Develop a timetable and plan.

How can I succeed in independent study?

  1. Devote at least four hours a day to studying in a quiet place.
  2. Are organized and manage their time well.
  3. Have enough motivation and determination to work and learn independently.
  4. Take ownership of their own success.
  5. Keep school a high priority.
  6. Establish a set academic schedule or routine.

Does an independent study count as research?

Independent study enables a student to pursue for course credit a

research

or other academic topic of interest under the supervision of a faculty member. Independent study is of two types: Independent Study (non-research) Research Independent Study.

Can you be an independent researcher?

An independent scientist (historically also known as gentleman scientist) is a financially independent scientist who

pursues scientific study without

direct affiliation to a public institution such as a university or government-run research and development body.

Do professors get paid for independent study?

Since

faculty do not get paid to teach independent study courses

(we don't get any more money for doing this, nor do we get course releases for it), we're essentially do them out of the good of our hearts or because the topic is particularly of interest to us and/or we'd like the interaction with advanced students.

Amira Khan
Author
Amira Khan
Amira Khan is a philosopher and scholar of religion with a Ph.D. in philosophy and theology. Amira's expertise includes the history of philosophy and religion, ethics, and the philosophy of science. She is passionate about helping readers navigate complex philosophical and religious concepts in a clear and accessible way.