EXPLORING STUDENT LEARNING APPROACHES: THE ROLE OF SELF-DIRECTED AND COLLABORATIVE LEARNING IN HIGHER EDUCATION

Students in higher education are exposed to a variety of teaching methods, which necessitates the development of adaptable learning approaches. The problem concerning approaches to learning at the university level and the development of independent learners is multifaceted and critical to students' success in higher education. This research aimed to determine how self-directed learning affected students' academic success and developed these skills. It explored the interaction between students' ability to use effective learning strategies and overcome self-study challenges while investigating the positive impact of self-directed learning on academic performance. The case study methodology was selected for this research to enable an in-depth exploration of the experiences of full-time students at Yogyakarta State University, particularly in the context of independent learning in higher education. This approach included conducting interviews and observations with 17 master's degree students. The research focused on gathering detailed information about the students' concentration, course of study, and year of study. Additionally, a questionnaire was used to collect quantitative data on the students' viewpoints and opinions regarding independent learning and higher education approaches. The results showed a substantial interaction between independent and collaborative learning methods, highlighting that participants engaged in various activities fostering critical thinking, problem-solving, and creativity. Higher education activities such as lectures, seminars, and experiential learning were found effective in enhancing skills like communication, adaptability, and global awareness. The study emphasizes the importance of an educational atmosphere that encourages both independent and collaborative learning.