One of the most popular ways these days to develop new knowledge and skills is through self-managed learning. But what do we mean by this?
Well, in a nutshell, self-managed learning means the individual learner has control over the learning process. Rather than attending formal tutorials or teaching sessions, the learner is usually supplied with a set of learning materials and they work through them at their own pace - often with the support of a learning mentor.
Of course, dependent on the course, there can be deadlines and hand-in dates for pieces of work or assignments but outside of this, the learner has total flexibility as to when and how they study.
A good example of this is the Open University system. I did my degree with the Open University. Every year the course started in February and ended with an examination in October. Between times I had to submit assignments on certain dates. But apart from that, it was down to me when I read and worked on the materials. The Open University provided me with tutor support and a tutorial every month - but these were options, I could choose whether to attend or not. And for me, over a 6 year period, I never attended one tutorial! Other students attended some or all of them. The important thing is, the learning was self-managed. I was given choices with a framework.
The benefits over self-managed learning are of course the total felxibility it affords. I did my degree whilst working full time and also raising a family - I was able to study at times that fitted in with the rest of my life.
It doesn't work for everyone of course. some people prefer a more structured system where they attend college at specific times and have the support of others doing the same course.
What you need to find out is your own particular learning style and make the most appropriate choice for you.
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