SDL implementation must be tailored to each healthcare system's socio-cultural and economic realities, including hierarchical structures and resource constraints¶

Strategy · All strategies
Evidence · 2 claims (2 for) · 1 study (1 review), q2 · 0 of 1 report an effect size · 2 claims rest on one study

Description¶

The review concludes that "while SDL offers a universally applicable model for continuous professional development, its implementation must be carefully tailored to each healthcare system's socio-cultural and economic realities to ensure its effectiveness and sustainability." In cultures emphasizing deference to senior professionals, encouraging junior staff to take ownership of learning may require mentoring programs or peer support networks. In resource-constrained settings, success may depend on innovative approaches such as mobile learning or community-based learning networks.

Design Implications¶

Context¶

Requirements¶

• Implementation must account for cultural norms regarding education and authority, and for the availability of digital tools and reliable internet access.

Constraints¶

• In countries with more hierarchical healthcare systems, implementing SDL may require a shift in organizational culture to promote greater autonomy and self-regulation among healthcare professionals.

Target Learners¶

• Healthcare professionals across high-income and low- and middle-income country healthcare systems

Target Learning Goals¶

• Continuous professional development through self-directed learning

Claims¶

• Supportive organizational cultures enhance self-directed learning practices among healthcare professionals, whereas restrictive policies hinder them [+W]
• Social interactions and the learning environment significantly shape SDL behaviors and attitudes among healthcare professionals [+W]

Related Strategies¶

• Healthcare institutions should prioritize SDL-friendly environments including protected learning time, access to digital tools, and mentorship programs

Examples¶

-

Key Sources¶

• Berger-Estilita, Joana; Linda, Krista; Gogollari, Artemisa; Schmitz, Felix; Elfering, Achim; Guttormsen, Sissel (2025). Self-directed learning in health professions: A mixed-methods systematic review of the literature. PLoS One. https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0320530