Why self-directed learning is not learned and practiced in veterinary education

Teaching and Learning Center at the University of the Sciences in Philadelphia, 600 S. 43rd St., Box 68, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA. p.blumbe@usip.edu

Veterinary education as it is frequently implemented creates numerous impediments for the majority of students to achieve self-directed learning. Self-directed learning is a state in which the student is prepared to engage in learning activities defined by him- or herself. Essential components of veterinary education (i.e., curriculum and assessment) inhibit the development of self-directed learning in many ways. This article will make suggestions on how we can promote self-directed learning within traditional veterinary education and discuss how teaching based upon the principles of problem-based learning (PBL) may foster self-directed learning.

This article has been cited by other articles:

				G. H. Turnwald, D. P. Sponenberg, and J. B. Meldrum Part II: Directions and Objectives of Curriculum Structure at Veterinary Medical and Other Health Professions Schools J Vet Med Educ, January 1, 2008; 35(1): 74 - 90. [Abstract] [Full Text] [PDF]

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