Predicting self-directed learning from personality type

The purpose of this study was to correlate readiness for self-directed learning with validated indices of personality type, determine which of these indices are significantly related with readiness for self-directed learning, and then predict readiness for self-directed learning from personality type. This study used the MBTI Form-M and SDLRS Form-A to assess personality type and readiness for self-directed learning. The null hypothesis of no significant correlation between any of the eight-indicator scale scores on the MBTI and SDLRS total score was rejected. The scale indicators of Extroversion (E), Introversion (I), Judging (J), and Perceiving (P) were all significantly related to SMRS scores. Extroversion (E) and Judging (J) were positively related to SMRS scores at the p < .01 level of significance. Introversion (I) and Perceiving (P) were negatively related to SDLRS scores at the p < .01 level of significance. The null hypothesis that none of the eight scale indicators of the MBTI would be a significant predictor of readiness for self-directed learning was rejected. The ANOVA comparisons showed that Extroversion (E) and Judging (J) were significant and should be retained as part of the regression model. Extroversion (E) was significant at the p < .003 level of significance. Judging (J) was significant at the p < .008 level of significance. The multiple regression model that included both Extroversion (E) and Judging (J) as independent variables to predict readiness for self-directed learning was significant at the p < .000 level of significance. The predictor variables that were used in the regression model accounted for 25.1% of the variance in SDLRS scores with and adjusted R-square value of .251. The demographic profile of the students in the ORM program suggested that these learners are a full standard deviation above the norm of adults in the United States on their SDLRS total score. Consequently, further research is needed to support or refute the relationship between personality and self-directed learning.