Innovative Strategies for Self-Directed Learning: A Case Study from a Teacher Educator’s Conference Experience

Abstract

Self-directed learning makes it possible for teacher educators to establish personal goals, find resources, and select strategies for professional growth. My purpose for this study is to examine the value of self-directed learning by taking part in the ASEAN Online Teaching Conference 2024, which serves as a platform for my professional advancement. I record and reflect on my learning experiences for a month using self-study teaching practices. I participated in as many sessions as I could at the conference, obtaining handouts and documenting the key takeaways from each one. Through this process, I identified new knowledge and skills that are applicable to my teaching practice. A synthesis essay that summarizes the insights gained from the conference was the result of these efforts. This study proves that self-directed learning is an effective tool for professional development by sharing my learning journey. The strategies and experiences shared here aspire to inspire other teachers and teachers’ educators to embrace self-directed learning to improve their own practices.