Musical Possible Selves and Self-directed Music Learning Across the Lifespan

We begin this chapter with some definitions and theoretical frameworks for self-directed learning (SDL). We then consider the conditions for self-directed learning, framing this discussion with the six dimensions of learning proposed by Heron, as set out in Chap. 1 of this book. The intersection of self-directed learning and experiential learning is then discussed, focusing on the idea of contextualised meaning-making. We follow this with some examples of self-directed learning in music, in face-to-face and online environments. We conclude by considering the implications of self-directed learning for the conceptualisation and articulation of musical possible selves.