Guglielmino's Self-Directed Learning Readiness Scale: What Does It Measure?

Abstract

Questions are raised about the construct validity of the Guglielmino Self-Directed Learning Readiness Scale. It is suggested that an understanding of the SDLRS might be enhanced by considering the meaning of low scores on the instrument. Do they represent other-directed-ness? Or do they represent a dislike for any kind of learning? Evidence is examined from the SDLRS items themselves, from Guglielmino's design work, from several quasi-experimental studies, and from studies linking SDLRS scores and level of formal education. The weight of evidence points toward dislike for learning in general as the cause of low SDLRS scores. High scores, then, seem to represent a positive attitude toward learning in general and not specifically toward the kind of learning called self-directed. Suggestions are made about further studies to explore the construct validity questions that have been raised.