Self-directed learning: adult learners' perceptions and their study materials

Greyling, Elsje; Geyser, HC; Fourie, Cornelius M.

doi:10.4314/sajhe.v16i2.25250

Cited by 4 publications

(2 citation statements)

References 3 publications

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“…Although one of the requirements for a functional action learning group is to have a trained facilitator, sustainability could be achieved as the group becomes more familiar and confident with the action learning process so that they take over the facilitation of the group themselves. In this way, this type of learning promotes self-direction and independence rather than reliance on experts that are percieved as more knowledgeable [ 27 ].…”

Section: Discussionmentioning

confidence: 99%

Using an action learning methodology to develop skills of health managers: experiences from KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa

Masango-Muzindutsi

Haskins

Wilford

et al. 2018

BMC Health Serv Res

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BackgroundStrong management skills are key to improving performance of health systems. Action learning, a technique to develop management skills, has been used successfully with health managers but not usually among lower level managers or in low and middle-income countries (LMICs).MethodsThis study uses a qualitative approach to explore experiences, successes and challenges of using an action learning approach to improve skills of managers in neonatal units in KwaZulu-Natal (KZN), South Africa. Eight action learning groups were convened with neonatal unit managers from all 39 district hospitals in KZN, each group had 4–6 participants. Meetings were conducted by a facilitator trained in action learning techniques, and groups met a minimum of ten times over a one-year period. After completion of the intervention, 14 in-depth interviews were conducted with purposively selected action learning participants. Data was transcribed and analysed using framework analysis.ResultsNeonatal unit managers found that action learning generated a sense of empowerment in their abilities, trust and confidence among participants was nurtured, problem solving and critical thinking skills were developed, and a continuous support system was created. The action learning process led to several positive changes in neonatal units, which enhanced the quality of care for patients. A number of challenges were also identified, mainly relating to administrative issues such as the provision of a skilled facilitator, permission to attend action learning meetings and logistical issues, including transport and other financial implications.ConclusionsThis paper illustrates that action learning can be an effective and practical method to support public health workers to manage their health units despite the challenges associated with the method. Time, energy and financial resources used to facilitate action learning for this cadre of health workers is rewarded by improved skills of managers and better quality of care for patients.

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Section: Discussionmentioning

confidence: 99%

Using an action learning methodology to develop skills of health managers: experiences from KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa

Masango-Muzindutsi

Haskins

Wilford

et al. 2018

BMC Health Serv Res

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“…While I was unable to find an article or book chapter written by Guglielmino stating that the instrument should be measured as one score as opposed to subscale scores, she reported in her website that scoring is interpreted using the overall score (Guglielmino & Associates, n.d.). Many studies use mean score and do not report on subscale scores for the instrument (Beitler & Mitlacher, 2007;Chou, 2012;Crook, 1985;Durr et al, 1996;Golightly, 2018;Greyling et al, 2002;Guglielmino et al, 1987;Guglielmino & Roberts, 1992;Guglielmino & Zhao, 1993;Herbeson, 1991;Hsu & Shiue, 2005;Jennings-Arey, 2020;Jiusto & DiBiasio, 2006;Koç, 2019;Malta et al, 2010;Premkumar, Pahwa, et al, 2013Premkumar, Vinod, et al, 2018;Russell, 1990;Rutson-Griffiths & Rutson-Griffiths, 2020;Strods, 2014;Walker & Lofton, 2003).…”

Section: Introductionmentioning

confidence: 99%

Self-Directed Learning Research: A Systematic Review

Reynolds

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This study serves to collate and evaluate measures of self-directed learning (SDL), with the goal of guiding the measurement and discussion of SDL. Used in a variety of settings, many applications of SDL have been proposed, but a consistent definition has yet to be formulated. Despite the lack of a cohesive definition, several tools exist to measure SDL. Within this study, which implemented the preferred reporting items for systematic reviews and meta-analyses (PRISMA) and Consensus-Based Standards for the Selection of Health Status Measurement Instruments (COSMIN) protocols, 157 articles were analyzed for content and themes were identified. An important finding of this study was a definite lack of cohesion in application and understanding of SDL as a framework. While some regard it as a stand-alone learning intervention, others address it as a personality trait. Close examination of the instruments used to measure SDL led to the conclusion that it is both inappropriate and ineffective to continue using, as they broadly lack construct validity and generalizability. Limitations of this study are single subject research, number studies available within databases used, and lack of raw data from studies covered. Future research surrounding the conceptual framework and instrumentation is indicated to further develop the field's understanding of SDL's value and implications.

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Self-Directed Learning at School and in Higher Education in Africa

Olivier

Wentworth

2021

Radical Solutions for Education in Africa

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Self-directed learning: adult learners' perceptions and their study materials

Cited by 4 publications

References 3 publications

Using an action learning methodology to develop skills of health managers: experiences from KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa

Using an action learning methodology to develop skills of health managers: experiences from KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa

Self-Directed Learning Research: A Systematic Review

Self-Directed Learning at School and in Higher Education in Africa

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