The International Self-Directed Learning Symposium provides a global forum for discussing key current developments in the study and application of self-directed learning (SDL). The International Society for Self-Directed Learning (ISSDL) defines SDL as “an intentional learning process that is created and evaluated by the learner.” The symposium creates a collaborative environment for researchers, theorists, and practitioners to present their work for feedback and further development. Many presenters use this feedback to prepare submissions for the International Journal of Self-Directed Learning. The program includes both large-group sessions and small-group interaction opportunities.  

 

Theoreticians, researchers, and practitioners are invited to submit a one- to two-page proposal for one of our submission categories. Submissions concerning SDL can be from any educational context or any age group, including but not limited to childhood education, higher education, adult education, training and human resource development, gaming/game design, instructional technology, informal/non-formal education or lifelong learning. We will not have virtual presentations in 2026; however, the Planning Committee is looking forward to offering virtual presentations throughout the year as webinars.

 

Participants have opportunities to learn (a) the results of recent research on SDL, (b) new developments in applying SDL ideas in various settings, industries and contexts, (c) how to evaluate employees’ and students’ SDL orientations, and (d) how to develop and strengthen SDL tendencies and skills. Additionally, symposium participants have built important networks and collaborative relationships, including interaction with renowned scholars in the field. 

 

The submission categories are listed below. Please note that final submission details are provided for each category as well.  The deadline for the one- to two-page proposals is October 31, 2025.  Notifications will be made by November 7, 2025. Final paper submissions, from accepted proposals, will be due on January 23, 2026.

 

Symposium Proposal Submission Categories & Guidelines 

 

1. All submissions must be original presentations that have not been previously published or presented. Proposals should clearly specify the submission category.

 

2. All submissions should address aspects of SDL and should reflect the ISSDL definition of SDL. Some suggested topics include, but are not limited to the following:

A. theory, research methods, conceptualizations and SDL applications;

B. SDL in continuing professional education;

C. SDL in the workforce;

D. SDL in the global skills economy;  

E. SDL in distance education, instructional technology, and game design;

F. SDL in human resource development (business and industry or in the voluntary and governmental sectors);

G. SDL aspects of lifelong learning; and

H. SDL at any school level (elementary to higher education; professional education).

 

3. Proposals should be one- to two-pages in length for the categories listed below: 

 

Research Paper:  Proposals and final paper submissions should include the following sections as appropriate: Overview, Purpose/Problem, Sample/Population, Instrumentation, Procedures, Major Findings, and Conclusions. Research paper presentations at the symposium will feature a formal presentation followed by a question-and-answer session within a 45-minute time block. Presenters should be prepared to submit a formal paper and a PowerPoint presentation by January 23, 2026.

 

Practice Brief:  Proposals should include an abstract that highlights a specific practice supporting SDL in educational or workplace settings. The abstract must describe the practice and provide a framework for its theoretical connection to SDL. Practice Brief presentations at the symposium will feature a formal presentation followed by a question-and-answer session within a 45-minute timeframe. Presenters should be ready to submit a formal paper and a PowerPoint presentation by January 23, 2026.

 

4. Proposals are due by October 31, 2025. Notification of proposal acceptance will be made by November 21, 2025. 

 

5. To begin submission of your proposal, please complete the following form: 

​

Link To Journal Proposal Submission Deails