What type of study allows learners to progress at their own pace and pursue personal interests?

The correct choice is independent study, as this approach is specifically designed to give learners the autonomy to set their own pace and focus on personal interests. In an independent study, students take responsibility for their learning by selecting topics that interest them, which can lead to increased motivation and engagement.

This method encourages self-directed learning, allowing students to explore subjects deeply and at a speed that suits their individual learning styles. By fostering independence, this approach cultivates critical thinking and problem-solving skills, as learners must manage their time and resources effectively.

In contrast, cooperative learning typically involves group work and collaboration where students rely on each other to achieve common objectives, which may not allow for personal pacing or individual interests to be prioritized. Heterogeneous groups refer to mixed-ability grouping strategies aimed at promoting diversity in learning experiences, but do not inherently provide the opportunity for self-paced instruction. Direct instruction focuses on teacher-led teaching, often following a structured curriculum that may not accommodate personal learning interests or the freedom to progress at an individual pace.