Journal of Social Science and Human Research Studies (JSSHRS)

From Self-Regulated Learning to Self-Directed Learning: A Developmental Shift Toward Learner Competence in the Digital Age

Giam, Nguyen Minh

30 January 2026 · Vol. 2, Issue 1, pp. 78-82

DOI: 10.65150/EP-jsshrs/V2E1/2026-11

Abstract

In the context of digital transformation and the development of intelligent learning ecosystems, the role of learners is shifting from passive knowledge acquisition to active knowledge construction and the shaping of their personal learning paths. Although self-regulated learning (SRL) and self-directed learning (SDL) are both considered foundations of lifelong learning, the relationship between these two concepts remains unclear in educational practice. This paper analyzes the dialectical relationship between SRL and SDL to propose a theoretical framework for the shift towards developing learners' competencies. Through a synthesis of existing theoretical approaches, the study clarifies the functional hierarchy between the two concepts: SRL is seen as a process-level construct that supports learners in controlling the performance of specific learning tasks; Meanwhile, SDL is approached as a competency-level construct, linked to the level of autonomy, decision-making ability, and long-term learning strategy planning. Analysis shows that, in the digital age, these two concepts exist in a complementary and unified relationship, emphasizing the role of self-learning ability as a crucial factor not only for learning effectiveness but also for the sustainable adaptability of learners.

Keywords: Self-Regulated Learning – SRL, Self-Directed Learning – SDL, Lifelong Learning Competency, Digital Age, Competency Development

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Giam, & Nguyen Minh (2026). From Self-Regulated Learning to Self-Directed Learning: A Developmental Shift Toward Learner Competence in the Digital Age. Journal of Social Science and Human Research Studies, 2(1), 78-82. https://doi.org/10.65150/EP-jsshrs/V2E1/2026-11

@article{Giam2026,
  title   = {From Self-Regulated Learning to Self-Directed Learning: A Developmental Shift Toward Learner Competence in the Digital Age},
  author  = {Giam and Nguyen Minh},
  journal = {Journal of Social Science and Human Research Studies},
  year    = {2026},
  volume  = {2},
  number  = {1},
  pages   = {78-82},
  doi     = {10.65150/EP-jsshrs/V2E1/2026-11},
  url     = {https://doi.org/10.65150/EP-jsshrs/V2E1/2026-11}
}

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