A Systematic Literature Review: Self-Paced Learning as a Catalyst for Competency Development in Digital Era Education

Authors

  • Nuzuludin UNJ
  • Evelene Siregar Universitas Negeri Jakarta
  • Murni Winarsih Universitas Negeri Jakarta

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.21009/ishel.v1i1.57378

Keywords:

Keywords: self paced learning; online learning

Abstract

Self-paced learning is a pedagogical methodology that affords learners the autonomy to regulate their own study schedules in accordance with their individual capabilities, timetables, and learning preferences. In the contemporary digital age, the relevance of self-paced learning has amplified, attributable to the proliferation of online learning platforms and the escalating necessity for adaptable educational modalities. This research utilizes a Systematic Literature Review (SLR) methodology. Based on a comprehensive review of the existing literature, the findings suggest that self-paced learning can enhance students’ motivation, foster learning independence, and improve the achievement of educational outcomes by facilitating flexible access to learning materials through self-directed study. Nevertheless, certain challenges persist, including the paucity of social interaction among learners and with instructors, as well as limited instructional support, which pose significant obstacles to the effective implementation of self-paced learning.

References

Abad, D. J. V., & Abad, E. M. (2023). Self-Paced Learning Practices during Educational Disruption in a Public Higher Education Institution. East Asian Journal of Multidisciplinary Research, 2(5), 1957. https://doi.org/10.55927/eajmr.v2i5.3819

Alserhan, S., Alqahtani, T. M., Yahaya, N., Al-Rahmi, W. M., & Abuhassna, H. (2023). Personal Learning Environments: Modeling Students’ Self-Regulation Enhancement Through a Learning Management System Platform. IEEE Access, 11, 5464. https://doi.org/10.1109/access.2023.3236504

Alshehri, S. (2024). Perspective Chapter: The Impact of Digital Education on Modern Educational Institutions. In IntechOpen eBooks. IntechOpen. https://doi.org/10.5772/intechopen.108058

Ángel, N. G., Sánchez, J. N. G., Rubio, I. M., García-Martín, J., & Brito‐Costa, S. (2022). Digital literacy in the university setting: A literature review of empirical studies between 2010 and 2021 [Review of Digital literacy in the university setting: A literature review of empirical studies between 2010 and 2021]. Frontiers in Psychology, 13. Frontiers Media. https://doi.org/10.3389/fpsyg.2022.896800

Bikse, V., Griņeviča, L., Rivža, B., & Rivža, P. (2022). Consequences and Challenges of the Fourth Industrial Revolution and the Impact on the Development of Employability Skills. Sustainability, 14(12), 6970. https://doi.org/10.3390/su14126970

Brdnik, S., Šumak, B., & Podgorelec, V. (2022). Aligning Learners’ Expectations and Performance by Learning Analytics Systemwith a Predictive Model. arXiv (Cornell University). https://doi.org/10.48550/arxiv.2211.07729

Cao, J., Bhuvaneswari, G., Arumugam, T., & Aravind, B. R. (2023). The digital edge: examining the relationship between digital competency and language learning outcomes. Frontiers in Psychology, 14. https://doi.org/10.3389/fpsyg.2023.1187909

Chiu, T. K. F. (2021). Student engagement in K-12 online learning amid COVID-19: A qualitative approach from a self-determination theory perspective. Interactive Learning Environments, 31(6), 3326. https://doi.org/10.1080/10494820.2021.1926289

Christodoulou, A., & Angeli, C. (2022). Adaptive Learning Techniques for a Personalized Educational Software in Developing Teachers’ Technological Pedagogical Content Knowledge. Frontiers in Education, 7. https://doi.org/10.3389/feduc.2022.789397

Clark, R., Kaw, A., & Gomes, R. B. (2021). Adaptive learning: Helpful to the flipped classroom in the online environment of COVID? Computer Applications in Engineering Education, 30(2), 517. https://doi.org/10.1002/cae.22470

Endres, T., Leber, J., Böttger, C., Rovers, S., & Renkl, A. (2020). Improving Lifelong Learning by Fostering Students’ Learning Strategies at University. Psychology Learning & Teaching, 20(1), 144. https://doi.org/10.1177/1475725720952025

Ershova, A.A. Koreneva, J.A. Kukushkina, M.P. Chernovol, I.V. Chirich. (2020). Psychological Aspects of Pedagogical Activity in Distance Learning: Problems and Prospects. https://doi.org/10.2991/assehr.k.201212.046

Gambo, Y., & Shakir, M. Z. (2021). Review on self-regulated learning in smart learning environment. Smart Learning Environments, 8(1). https://doi.org/10.1186/s40561-021-00157-8

Hassanein, O. H. S. (2021). Investigating Competency‐Based Learning Implementation at the Northern Border University (NBU): A Descriptive Analytical Study. SSRN Electronic Journal. https://doi.org/10.2139/ssrn.3892837

Hosseini, M., & Nimehchisalem, V. (2021). Self-Assessment in English Language Teaching and Learning in the Current Decade (2010-2020): A Systematic Review [Review of Self-Assessment in English Language Teaching and Learning in the Current Decade (2010-2020): A Systematic Review]. Open Journal of Modern Linguistics, 11(6), 854. Scientific Research Publishing. https://doi.org/10.4236/ojml.2021.116066

Jaiswal, P. (2020). Integrating Educational Technologies to Augment Learners’ Academic Achievements. International Journal of Emerging Technologies in Learning (iJET), 15(2), 145. https://doi.org/10.3991/ijet.v15i02.11809

Jin, S.-H., Im, K., Yoo, M., Roll, I., & Seo, K. (2023). Supporting students’ self-regulated learning in online learning using artificial intelligence applications. International Journal of Educational Technology in Higher Education, 20(1). https://doi.org/10.1186/s41239-023-00406-5

Khiat, H., & Vogel, S. (2022). A self-regulated learning management system: Enhancing performance, motivation and reflection in learning. Journal of University Teaching and Learning Practice, 19(2), 43. https://doi.org/10.53761/1.19.2.4

Luan, L., Lin, X., & Li, W. (2023). Exploring the Cognitive Dynamics of Artificial Intelligence in the Post-COVID-19 and Learning 3.0 Era: A Case Study of ChatGPT. arXiv (Cornell University). https://doi.org/10.48550/arxiv.2302.04818

Ma, H., & Ismail, L. (2025). Bibliometric analysis and systematic review of digital competence in education. Humanities and Social Sciences Communications, 12(1). https://doi.org/10.1057/s41599-025-04401-1

Mejeh, M., & Sarbach, L. (2024). Co-design: From Understanding to Prototyping an Adaptive Learning Technology to Enhance Self-regulated Learning. Technology Knowledge and Learning. https://doi.org/10.1007/s10758-024-09788-5

Mejías-Acosta, A., Regnault, M. D., Vargas-Cano, E., Cobo, J., & Vidal-Silva, C. (2024). Assessment of digital competencies in higher education students: development and validation of a measurement scale. Frontiers in Education, 9. https://doi.org/10.3389/feduc.2024.1497376

Mhlongo, S., Mbatha, K., Ramatsetse, B., & Dlamini, R. (2023). Challenges, opportunities, and prospects of adopting and using smart digital technologies in learning environments: An iterative review. Heliyon, 9(6). https://doi.org/10.1016/j.heliyon.2023.e16348

Miliou, O., & Angeli, C. (2022). Design principles for internet skills education: results from a design-based research study in higher education. SN Social Sciences, 2(9). https://doi.org/10.1007/s43545-022-00428-2

Naidu, S., Bhartu, D., & Mays, T. (2022). Access to ICT Infrastructure and Devices in the South Pacific. Tenth Pan-Commonwealth Forum on Open Learning. https://doi.org/10.56059/pcf10.3503

Niţă, V., & Guțu, I. (2023). The Role of Leadership and Digital Transformation in Higher Education Students’ Work Engagement. International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health, 20(6), 5124. https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph20065124

Pan, X. (2020). Technology Acceptance, Technological Self-Efficacy, and Attitude Toward Technology-Based Self-Directed Learning: Learning Motivation as a Mediator. Frontiers in Psychology, 11. https://doi.org/10.3389/fpsyg.2020.564294

Pręgowska, A., Masztalerz, K., Garlińska, M., & Osial, M. (2021). A Worldwide Journey through Distance Education—From the Post Office to Virtual, Augmented and Mixed Realities, and Education during the COVID-19 Pandemic. Education Sciences, 11(3), 118. https://doi.org/10.3390/educsci11030118

Prosen, M., & Ličen, S. (2025). Evaluating the digital transformation in health sciences education: a thematic analysis of higher education teachers’ perspectives. BMC Medical Education, 25(1). https://doi.org/10.1186/s12909-025-07420-3

Reyes-Millán, M., Villareal-Rodríguez, M., Murrieta-Flores, M. E., Bedolla-Cornejo, L., Vázquez‐Villegas, P., & Membrillo‐Hernández, J. (2023). Evaluation of online learning readiness in the new distance learning normality. Heliyon, 9(11). https://doi.org/10.1016/j.heliyon.2023.e22070

Rezer, T. (2021). Historical and pedagogical analysis of the process of global digitalization of education. E3S Web of Conferences, 273, 12036. https://doi.org/10.1051/e3sconf/202127312036

Robinson, J. D., & Persky, A. M. (2020). Developing Self-Directed Learners [Review of Developing Self-Directed Learners]. American Journal of Pharmaceutical Education, 84(3), 847512. Elsevier BV. https://doi.org/10.5688/ajpe847512

Rodríguez, A. I., Martín, A. H., González, Y. M., & Herráez-Corredera, P. (2021). Design, Validation and Implementation of a Questionnaire to Assess Teenagers’ Digital Competence in the Area of Communication in Digital Environments. Sustainability, 13(12), 6733. https://doi.org/10.3390/su13126733

Ruig, N. J. de, Jong, P. F. de, & Zee, M. (2023). Stimulating Elementary School Students’ Self-Regulated Learning Through High-Quality Interactions and Relationships: A Narrative Review [Review of Stimulating Elementary School Students’ Self-Regulated Learning Through High-Quality Interactions and Relationships: A Narrative Review]. Educational Psychology Review, 35(3). Springer Science+Business Media. https://doi.org/10.1007/s10648-023-09795-5

Saks, K. (2024). The effect of self-efficacy and self-set grade goals on academic outcomes. Frontiers in Psychology, 15. https://doi.org/10.3389/fpsyg.2024.1324007

Sandars, J. (2020). Self-Regulated Learning: the essential factor for understanding and improving academic and clinical performance. Scientia Medica, 30(1), 36232. https://doi.org/10.15448/1980-6108.2020.1.36232

Scheel, L., Vladova, G., & Ullrich, A. (2022). The influence of digital competences, self-organization, and independent learning abilities on students’ acceptance of digital learning. International Journal of Educational Technology in Higher Education, 19(1). https://doi.org/10.1186/s41239-022-00350-w

Sillat, L. H., Tammets, K., & Laanpere, M. (2021). Digital Competence Assessment Methods in Higher Education: A Systematic Literature Review. Education Sciences, 11(8), 402. https://doi.org/10.3390/educsci11080402

Srivastava, S., & Dangwal, K. L. (2021). Digital Competence: Where do the Higher Education Teachers Stand? Universal Journal of Educational Research, 9(10), 1765. https://doi.org/10.13189/ujer.2021.091005

Sukmawati, R. A., Ridhani, M., Adini, M. H., Mitra, P., & Sari, D. P. (2021). Students’ self-regulation learning ability in learning algebraic forms in wetland context with the help of interactive multimedia. IOP Conference Series Earth and Environmental Science, 758(1), 12018. https://doi.org/10.1088/1755-1315/758/1/012018

Surya, R., & Mulyanti, B. (2020). Competencies needed by civil engineering teachers in the digital era. IOP Conference Series Materials Science and Engineering, 830(3), 32060. https://doi.org/10.1088/1757-899x/830/3/032060

Versuti, F. M., Farias, J., Rebessi, I. P., & Neufeld, C. B. (2020). Habilidades para Vida e Tecnologias Digitais Educacionais: Uma Revisão Sistemática de Literatura. Revista Brasileira de Informática Na Educação, 28, 1105. https://doi.org/10.5753/rbie.2020.28.0.1105

Vy, N. T. P., Hung, L. T., Nguyen, H. T., & Yen, N. H. (2022). Teacher’s Readiness to Implement Digital Assessment Activities. VNU Journal of Science Education Research. https://doi.org/10.25073/2588-1159/vnuer.4662

Wallace, J., Scanlon, D., & Calderón, A. (2022). Digital technology and teacher digital competency in physical education: a holistic view of teacher and student perspectives. Curriculum Studies in Health and Physical Education, 14(3), 271. https://doi.org/10.1080/25742981.2022.2106881

Wang, J., Yang, C.-H., Liao, W., Yang, K., Chang, I.-W., Sheu, B., & Ni, Y. (2022). Highly Engaged Video-Watching Pattern in Asynchronous Online Pharmacology Course in Pre-clinical 4th-Year Medical Students Was Associated With a Good Self-Expectation, Understanding, and Performance. Frontiers in Medicine, 8. https://doi.org/10.3389/fmed.2021.799412

Weng, Y., & Zhang, Y. (2025). Assessment of Personalized Learning in Immersive and Intelligent Virtual Classroom on Student Engagement. arXiv (Cornell University). https://doi.org/10.48550/arxiv.2501.07883

Woltran, F., Lindner, K.-T., Dzojic, T., & Schwab, S. (2022). Will–Skill–Tool Components as Key Factors for Digital Media Implementation in Education: Austrian Teachers’ Experiences with Digital Forms of Instruction during the COVID-19 Pandemic. Electronics, 11(12), 1805. https://doi.org/10.3390/electronics11121805

Zain, S. (2020). Digital transformation trends in education. In Elsevier eBooks (p. 223). Elsevier BV. https://doi.org/10.1016/b978-0-12-822144-0.00036-7

Zhao, Y., Llorente, A. M. P., & Gómez, M. C. S. (2021). Digital competence in higher education research: A systematic literature review. Computers & Education, 168, 104212. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.compedu.2021.104212

Zheng, X., Luo, L., & Liu, C. (2022). Facilitating Undergraduates’ Online Self-Regulated Learning: The Role of Teacher Feedback. The Asia-Pacific Education Researcher, 32(6), 805. https://doi.org/10.1007/s40299-022-00697-8

Zou, Y. L., Kuek, F., Feng, W., & Cheng, X. (2025). Digital learning in the 21st century: trends, challenges, and innovations in technology integration. Frontiers in Education, 10. https://doi.org/10.3389/feduc.2025.1562391

Downloads

Published

2025-07-14

How to Cite

Nuzuludin, Siregar, E., & Winarsih, M. (2025). A Systematic Literature Review: Self-Paced Learning as a Catalyst for Competency Development in Digital Era Education. Proceeding of International Seminar on Humanity, Education, and Language, 1(1), 371–382. https://doi.org/10.21009/ishel.v1i1.57378