Self-Directed Learning Elective
Self-directed learning (SDL) has been defined as a "process in which individuals take initiative, with or without the help of others, in diagnosing their own learning needs, formulating goals, identifying human and material resources for learning, choosing and implementing appropriate learning strategies and evaluating learning outcomes." (Knowles, 1975)
The emphasis is on practical problem solving, appreciating and building upon previous experiences, and work with people who recognize that as learners they fall somewhere along a wide range of knowledge and skills.
SDL does not mean learning in isolation. While it is true that most SDL situations require time to be alone for personal reflection, reading, and perhaps writing—this is only one aspect of the learning process. Most of us recognize the joy and synergy that results from working with others. Often it is interaction that makes new insights, growth, and skill development possible.
What is a self-directed learning elective?
A period of time—ranging from a few hours per week, to a few days per week, up to but not surpassing two (2) months where you work in an area to meet your own self-defined learning objectives.
The diagnosis of your own learning needs often presents itself in the form of a skill you would like to improve, or as a desire to work with a mentor in a particular field in order to improve your own performance. It can also be reading, measuring you own behavior through chart audit (or some other tool) and reflecting how you might improve when you compare your own practice pattern to best known evidence.
The process involves diagnosing your own learning needs, assessing possible options for the learning process, negotiating and clarifying content and outcomes, and determining how to evaluate the experience.
There is no payment to you in the form of salary. The CME does not charge any administrative fees to help organize this type of experience.
Who is eligible?
Physicians who hold a license to practice medicine in Canada are eligible. For physicians licensed in provinces other than Manitoba, one must obtain proper recognition from the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Manitoba (CPSM) for any experiences that will involve patient contact or care including appropriate liability insurance coverage.
Role of CME Office
First, the application process asks you to provide background information as well as that you define the type of learning experience you would like.
You will be asked to write out your learning objectives, reflect upon them and start to plan.
Next, the CME office will facilitate any Winnipeg Regional Health Authority (WRHA) temporary privileges you may require to work clinically.
We are willing to "brainstorm" with you the various approaches you might pursue or people you might want to work with on your self-directed elective.
What is the applicant's role?
SELF DIRECTED LEARNING APPLICATION [DOWNLOAD]
The WHAT: Provide a clear learning objective
The HOW: Define & design the learning process
The WHO: Offer resources (source of support)
The RESULTS: Establish guidelines for measuring success
Certification
There are no exams, no externally defined set of learning objectives and no formal written evaluations. CME does not keep attendance. CME does not ask learners to account for their time. Learners will not be issued any sort of letter or certificate indicating successful completion of the elective.
The Self-Directed Learning Elective is an opportunity to access resources, and determine clinical applicability of information.
The Self-Directed Learning Elective is a practical exclusive way to improve yourself as a physician.
Why Self-Directed Learning?
There are many situations and a variety of reasons when adults are required to participate in learning activities.
The Self-directed Learning Elective gives the learner control over many of aspects of the process. The elective program is entirely voluntary.
The learner defines the objective and works towards the specified knowledge objective.
Is the Self-directed Learner eligible for CME Credits?
Yes, both the College of Family Physicians of Canada and the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons allow one to claim self-directed learning experiences for educational credit. The CPSM accepts CFPC and RCPSC equivalent credits when applying for license renewal.
The CME office will assist the self-directed learner understand the credit process. If requested, the CME office will provide the necessary support for setting up a "credit friendly" elective so that the appropriate number of continuing medical education credits are claimed.
Self - Directed Learning Examples:
- Obstetrics
- Intubation
- Pediatric Anesthesia
- Neonatology
- Pediatric Rheumatology
Other more formalized learning experiences are offered through the Faculty of Medicine's Enhanced Skills Program.
Program examples include:
Family Medicine Research Fellowship
Self-Directed Learning Elective
Office of Continuing Medical Education
University of Manitoba
S203 - 750 Bannatyne Avenue
Winnipeg, MB R3E0W3
Telephone: (204) 789-3660
Fax: (204) 789-3911