Self-directed learning: preparing students for lifelong learning

Introduction CPD is likely to be an important element of the revalidation process. Engaging in self-directed learning as an undergraduate student will help individuals develop the relevant skills to direct their own future learning within the CPD framework. Module description Three self-directed learning units were introduced to the Level 4 Pharmacotherapy Module of the MPharm programme at Queen‟s University Belfast. Evaluation A short questionnaire was administered to students to determine the extent to which they had engaged in self-directed learning and the value of this learning. Fifty seven percent of students had engaged in the self-directed learning and reported positively regarding the experience. The remaining 43% who failed to engage did not view self-directed learning as a priority. Future plans To ensure that graduates are produced who are capable of engaging in self-directed learning and thus CPD, self-directed learning should be introduced at an earlier level in the undergraduate curriculum.