Plain English Meaning
Adult students prefer to steer their own learning. They want a say in what they study, how they study it, and how they measure their progress, instead of being treated like children who need to be led step by step.
Full Definition
A characteristic of adult learners describing their preference and capacity to take responsibility for their own learning — choosing what to study, setting their own goals, deciding how to approach the material, and evaluating their own progress, rather than being told what and how to learn.
Context Anchor
Seen in instructor training material about adult learners, especially when planning lessons, setting goals, and choosing how to guide a student pilot.
Derivation
‘Autonomous’ comes from the Greek autos (self) and nomos (law or rule) — literally ‘self-ruling.’ ‘Self-directed’ is plain English: directing oneself. Together they emphasize that the adult learner sets their own course rather than following someone else’s.
Why Pilots Care
Flight instructors who understand this trait can offer resources and support without -directing, which improves student engagement and reduces frustration during training.