Considering the ancient origins of this process, and the fact that a more systematized form of education is now quite common, is SDL still used? And, does it have a “cutting edge?”
The answer to both questions is an emphatic “yes.”
In fact, there are some, like Sugata Mitra, who argue that SDL should replace formal education, and envision using some of the newest technologies to make it happen.
Similarly, the business world has been investing heavily in self-paced learning for the delivery of training in the form of e-learning.
This is because it is more cost effective. Much can be saved by simply removing travel costs that would normally be associated with a more traditional training approach. It also allows for training outside of normal work hours, which leads to more flexibility for the employee, and prevents losses in productivity for the company.
While not all self-paced e-learning would qualify as self-directed learning – the learner isn’t always guided by their own interests – much of it can be. In fact, according to the recent “Learning Insights Report” by learning solutions provider – Kineo, employers feel pressure to provide quality training opportunities in order to retain talent and minimize turnover. Clearly many of these employees are self-directed learners.