Implementing SDL Strategies in Higher Education: Insights from a Pilot Study.

<p dir="ltr">This submission details a pilot study at Singapore Polytechnic (SP) designed to strengthen students' self-directed learning (SDL) competencies in real-world classroom contexts. Grounded in SP's SDL Model, the study had three main goals: (1) map specific SDL strategies to each component of the Model, (2) provide clear guidelines for incorporating these strategies into the curriculum, and (3) share practical case studies to help lecturers apply SDL techniques effectively. Over one academic semester, participating lecturers selected specific modules to trial SDL strategies. A validated questionnaire, adapted from the Motivated Strategies for Learning Questionnaire (MSLQ) by Pintrich, Smith, Garcia, and McKeachie (1991), measured students' SDL levels at the start (Weeks 4-6) and near the end (Weeks 16-19) of the semester. Comparing these datasets provided insights into the impact of SDL strategies on learner growth. In addition, student focus group discussions yielded both quantitative and qualitative evaluations, offering deeper perspectives on strategy effectiveness. The study will also highlight best practices and successful approaches demonstrated by lecturers, noting their benefits and challenges. By outlining recommended workflows and discussing the lessons learned, this submission provides practical guidance on embedding SDL in module design. Collectively, these findings aim to support SP lecturers and curriculum planners in fostering applied learning environments that promote stronger self-directed learning skills among students.</p>