Determinants of independent-minded learning attitudes in university students: Results of a survey on liberal arts students

Abstract

 This study analyzes the determinants of independent-minded learning attitudes in a highly selective liberal arts school. Previous studies have shown that independent-minded learning attitudes are important in determining learning behavior and outcomes, regardless of the field of study or school selectivity. However, the determinants of independent-minded learning attitudes differ depending on school selectivity, and at highly selective universities, teaching methods are more important than course content. Based on this premise, an analysis was conducted at a highly selective liberal arts school, and the results confirmed the relevance of independent-minded learning attitudes on learning behavior and learning outcomes. However, unlike previous studies, this study found that the determinants of the independent-minded learning attitude are not teaching methods such as opportunities to express opinions in class or to participate in group work, but the course content such as the relationship between society and reality, and opportunities to apply theories and knowledge.