Lincoln as Learner: Self-Directed Learning Review

A set of vocabulary flashcards focusing on self-directed learning concepts and historical examples from Abraham Lincoln’s life based on the research by Mary R. and Ralph G. Brockett.

Self-directed learning (SDL)

A process where an individual demonstrates a high level of self-directedness in order to solve problems and acquire skills and attitudes.

Person Process Context (PPC) Model

A model proposed by Hiemstra and Brockett (2012) that emphasizes the importance of social context and individual characteristics in self-directed learning.

Person

An element of the PPC model referring to individual characteristics such as psychological factors, life experience, motivation, resilience, and attitude toward learning.

Process

An element of the PPC model involving the actual teaching and learning interaction, including learning skills, styles, planning, and organizing.

Context

An element of the PPC model referring to the environmental and sociopolitical climate, including culture, class, power, and political milieu.

Developmental readiness

A fundamental requirement for self-directed learning to take place, as identified by Owenby (1996) in his study of Robert Heinlein.

Almanac of 1857

The specific resource used by Lincoln to demonstrate that the moon was not high in the sky, leading to the acquittal of William "Duff" Armstrong.

Single-minded pursuit

One of the top ten characteristics of self-directed learners identified by Gibbons et al. (1980), demonstrated by Lincoln’s resolve to preserve the Union.

Team of rivals

Lincoln's ingenious strategy of creating a Cabinet from political opponents to find creative ways to solve national problems.

William Herndon

Lincoln’s longtime Springfield law partner who recalled Lincoln's strategy of reading aloud to hear how words sounded before giving a speech.