Parents need to help their children become self-directed learners because all major learning revolves around self-learning (A child's best motivation comes from within; Feb 27).

As educator B. J. Zimmerman wisely puts it: "Learning is not something that happens to students, it is something that happens by children."

It is unfortunate that some parents, educators and schools do not have a curriculum or drive to help children develop a passion for learning and to learn how to learn.

It is important to teach children that the pursuit of knowledge does not have to depend on any person, task, situation or environment.

Self-motivation can be learned and developed.

Patrick Liew Siow Gian (Dr)