This article reports on research that aims to enhance self-directed learning by introducing cooperative learning strategies. The two-fold aim of this research was firstly to determine whether the implementation of cooperative learning in a Computer Application Technology class of first-year students contributed to positive attitudes towards learning, and secondly, whether students’ attitudes towards learning, after completion of the cooperative learning intervention, related to their self-directedness. We conclude that the implementation of cooperative learning in a Computer Application Technology first-year class positively contributes to students’ attitudes towards learning and their attitudes towards learning related to their perceived self-directed learning (SDL) readiness.

This book is devoted to scholarship in the field of self-directed learning in the 21st century, with specific reference to higher education. The target audience of the book includes scholars in the field of self-directed learning and higher education. The book contributes to the discourse on the quality of education in the 21st century and adds to the body of scholarship in terms of self-directed learning, and specifically its role in higher education. Although all the chapters in the book directly address self-directed learning, the different foci and viewpoints raised make the book a rich knowledge bank of work on self-directed learning.

This book is devoted to scholarship in the field of self-directed learning in the 21st century, with specific reference to higher education. The target audience of the book includes scholars in the field of self-directed learning and higher education. The book contributes to the discourse on the quality of education in the 21st century and adds to the body of scholarship in terms of self-directed learning, and specifically its role in higher education. Although all the chapters in the book directly address self-directed learning, the different foci and viewpoints raised make the book a rich knowledge bank of work on self-directed learning.

This scholarly book is the third volume in an NWU book series on self-directed learning and is devoted to self-directed learning research and its impact on educational practice. The importance of self-directed learning for learners in the 21st century to equip themselves with the necessary skills to take responsibility for their own learning for life cannot be over emphasised. The target audience does not only consist of scholars in the field of self-directed learning in Higher Education and the Schooling sector but includes all scholars in the field of teaching and learning in all education and training sectors. The book contributes to the discourse on creating dispositions towards self-directed learning among all learners and adds to the latest body of scholarship in terms of self-directed learning. Although from different perspectives, all chapters in the book are closely linked together around self-directed learning as a central theme, following on the work done in Volume 1 of this series (Self-Directed Learning for the 21st Century: Implications for Higher Education) to form a rich knowledge bank of work on self-directed learning.

In this chapter, self-directed learning (SDL) and the competency to transfer knowledge between different contexts are positioned as essential competencies for the 21st century. Being able to transfer knowledge, especially between different contexts, has increasingly been indicated as essential competency for the 21st century. Transfer of knowledge and skills has however been neglected in SDL research. It is therefore argued that students should be deeper self-directed learners, who can take responsibility for their learning to obtain transferable competencies. Learners should be able to apply their knowledge and SDL skills to new and unknown situations in order to succeed in the 21st century and beyond. Social constructivist theory is suggested as theoretical basis for deeper self-directed learning (DSDL). In this chapter, the concept of DSDL will be defined, and various competencies associated with DSDL will be discussed. Finally, suggestions will be made to develop DSDL in education.

This study explores how gamification can be incorporated when facilitating theoretical content in Computer Applications Technology (CAT) to promote self-directed learning of Generation Z learners. The CAT curriculum consists of practical and theoretical content, and Generation Z learners tend to perceive theoretical content as less engaging and less stimulating. The dynamic nature of CAT, however, requires CAT learners to be self-directed learners who take ownership of their learning and are motivated and engaged in learning both the practical and theoretical components. A basic interpretive study, within an interpretivist paradigm, was applied as the research design. Purposive sampling was utilized, and 106 CAT learners at a South African high school participated in the research. A traditional teacher-centered approach was first followed to facilitate theoretical content. Thereafter, gamification with Classcraft was applied as an intervention. Data collection was performed by implementing post-open-ended questionnaires and focus group interviews. Results indicate that Generation Z learners crave instant gratification and lack skills such as self-motivation and critical thinking. A teacher-centered approach was found unsuitable for facilitating theoretical content to Generation Z learners. Gamification has the potential to entice Generation Z learners from different socioeconomical and cultural backgrounds to experience theoretical content in a more engaging and enjoyable manner and foster self-directed learning.