At Covington Latin School, we believe that gifted students thrive when they are given opportunities not only to learn, but also to pursue questions of their own. One of the hallmarks of a classical, liberal arts education is the adaptability of study and the development of critical thinking skills.
Independent study provides students with the opportunity to explore an academic topic, question, or area of interest beyond the boundaries of the traditional classroom. With guidance from a faculty mentor, students take ownership of their learning as they develop a focused area of study, conduct research, and create a meaningful final product.
A time-honored tradition at Covington Latin School is the Senior Thesis. Through an optional dual credit course for research or an honors level course, students will establish themselves as critical thinkers in their chosen field.
Learning Beyond the Classroom
Independent study encourages students to become active participants in their education. Rather than simply completing an assigned curriculum, students learn to identify meaningful questions, seek out appropriate resources, evaluate information, manage a long-term project, and communicate what they have discovered.
Projects may take many forms depending on the student's interests and goals. A student might conduct original research, pursue an advanced topic, develop a creative project, investigate a question across multiple disciplines, or explore an area of study not otherwise offered through the CLS curriculum.
The next step in the independent study process is for students to share their findings with those inside and outside our community. Students are encouraged to participate in Science Research Forums, nationally renowned writing competitions and publications, and public speaking forums in their communities.
Guided Independence
Independent Study does not mean learning alone. Students work with a faculty mentor who helps them establish goals, develop a plan, monitor progress, and refine their work. This balance of student ownership and faculty guidance allows students to experience the freedom of independent learning while developing the discipline and accountability necessary to succeed.
Through Independent Study, students develop skills in:
- Independent research
- Critical thinking and analysis
- Time management and organization
- Problem solving
- Written and oral communication
- Project development and execution
- Intellectual curiosity and initiative
- Self-directed learning
Preparing Students to Lead Their Own Learning
The ability to learn independently is one of the most valuable skills a student can carry into college and beyond. Independent Study gives CLS students an early opportunity to practice that skill in an environment where curiosity is encouraged and academic ambition is supported.
At CLS, independent learning is not simply preparation for the next level of education—it is part of becoming the kind of lifelong learner and leader we hope our students will become.