selfteaching

Self-teaching, also called autodidactic learning, is the process of acquiring knowledge or skills through informal, unsupervised study rather than through formal instruction. It is characterized by self-directed goal setting, resource selection, and self-assessment. Autodidacts often learn across a broad range of domains including languages, programming, arts, sciences, and practical trades.

Historically, self-directed learning has been practiced by scholars who lacked access to formal schools or who chose to supplement formal education. In the modern era, the availability of libraries, online courses, open educational resources, and communities of practice has greatly expanded the potential for self-teaching. Many notable figures in science, literature, and technology have pursued knowledge outside traditional curricula.

Typical methods include reading, watching tutorials, completing exercises, building projects, and seeking feedback from peers. Deliberate practice, goal setting, and maintaining a learning journal are common strategies. Evaluation may rely on personal quizzes, project outcomes, or external validation such as certificates or peer review.

Benefits include flexibility, cost savings, and the ability to tailor learning to interests and schedules. Challenges include sustaining motivation, ensuring resource quality, securing credible feedback, and obtaining formal recognition of skills learned. Success often depends on discipline, access to diverse resources, and opportunities to apply knowledge in real tasks.

Self-teaching intersects with formal education and lifelong learning. It complements structured programs and can lead to professional development, career changes, or personal enrichment. In many fields, credentialing may be optional, with demonstrated competence more important than the route taken to acquire it.