I am a big proponent of self-direction in schooling and in life. I believe that when we are given the opportunities, knowledge, tools and experiences, we can direct our own lives and destinies more effectively than if we have an outsider direct us. What are the tools each of us need to be able to understand how to direct our own learning and lives? First off we need to be given the chance to practice and to discover what it is that drives us. Deci and Ryan have spent a lifetime uncovering ways in which you can create a healthy psychological state leading to a person who can direct his/her own life. This theory called "Self-Determination Theory" should be considered as a foundation for an education that will encourage life-long learning. This is because of the development of a healthy internal system of motivation. Follow this logic: There are some basic tenets to learning that is related to the biological basis of how we learn. ...