Self-Directed Learning: A Tool for Lifelong Learning

Authors

Stefanie L. Boyer, Bryant University
Diane R. Edmondson, Middle Tennessee State University
Andrew B. Artis, University of South Florida
David Fleming, Eastern Illinois UniversityFollow

Document Type

Article

Comments

Published by Sage Publications Inc. in the Journal of Marketing Education, volume 36 issue 1, 2013. Bryant users may access this article here.

Keywords

learning approaches and issues; innovative teaching methods; student motivation; employer needs; methodology; sales management/sales; undergraduate education; MBA

Publisher

Sage Publications

Publication Source

Journal of Marketing Education

Abstract

A meta-analytic review of self-directed learning (SDL) research over 30 years, five countries, and across multiple academic disciplines is used to explore its relationships with five key nomologically related constructs for effective workplace learning. The meta-analysis revealed positive relationships between SDL and internal locus of control, motivation, performance, selfefficacy, and support. The use of an actual SDL project in an undergraduate sales management course and an MBA selling and sales management course is used to provide supporting evidence and practical advice for educators seeking to use SDL to promote lifelong learning skills in students.