Glossary of terms

Self-Managed Learning (SML)

SML is an approach to learning where the individual has autonomy and responsibility for their own education. The term was created in 1979 to describe a specific learning method, distinct from the generic term "self-managed learning" often used to describe vague learner-centered approaches. It focuses on the individual having power over their choices, including what, where, when, and why they learn.

Mentor

A mentor is an adult who works with learners in a self-managed learning environment. Their role is not to teach, but to help young people take responsibility for their own learning by acting as a guide and a sounding board. They assist with creating and updating learning plans, but the ultimate responsibility for the learning choices remains with the student.

Young Person vs. Child

The term "young person" is used in this new paradigm to challenge the traditional distinction between "child" and "adult". It implies that individuals are real people with rights and the capacity for autonomous decision-making even before the age of 18, a concept that is often not accepted in the traditional schooling model.

Student vs. Pupil

The term "student" is preferred over "pupil" because it is associated with a different educational model. In this model, students are those who "study (whatever they like)," while the term "pupil" is associated with the language of school and is considered anathema to the students of SML.