Self-directed learning as part of the mainstream of physiotherapy education

A frequently stated aim of physiotherapy educational programs is to produce graduates capable of, and wishing to pursue, lifelong learning. To help achieve this goal, curricula commonly include the promotion of independent or self-directed learning. This paper supports the need for developing self-directed learning, orientation and skills and argues that this can be best achieved by bringing these skills into the mainstream of tertiary education programs such as physiotherapy, rather than isolating them to specific subjects. The challenge of mainstreaming is to appreciate how the basic ideas of self-directed learning can be incorporated into all areas of the curriculum. This paper presents strategies, issues and problems associated with mainstreaming of self-directed learning.