Self-directed Learning Theory to Practice: A Footstep towards the Path of being a Life-long Learne

The traditional education strategy is insufficient to meet the demands of dynamically changing medical science and the fast-growing medical field. The present Competency-Based Medical Curriculum for medical undergraduates in India emphasizes acquisition of a set of competencies for self-directed learning (SDL) through an explicit approach and dedicated teaching hours in the disciplines which gives the opportunity to develop skills for developing lifelong learners. Self-directed learning cuts across all domains of learning and has a significant potential in shaping transformational learning experiences. The concepts of SDL are based on adult learning principles and experiential learning fostering skills for lifelong learning. In view of the paradigm changes in the new curriculum, it is imperative to understand the basic concepts and the methods for effective practice of SDL in the new curriculum. Faculty development for SDL, ensuring the availability of resources, harnessing the power of information technology, and integrating cognitive and affective assessment strategies enhance the effectiveness of SDL. We revisited the literature, and critically summarize our views on the theory-to-practice concepts of self-directed learning. The article discusses the basic concept of SDL, implementation strategies, and evaluation of self-directed learning.

Understanding uncertainty in medicine: concepts and implications in medical education

In an era of high technology and low trust, acknowledging and coping with uncertainty is more crucial than ever. Medical uncertainty has been considered an innate feature of medicine and medical practice. An intolerance to uncertainty increases physicians' stress and the effects of burnout and may be a potential threat to patient safety. Understanding medical uncertainty and acquiring proper coping strategies has been regarded to be a core clinical competency for medical graduates and trainees. Integrating intuition and logic and creating a culture that acknowledges medical uncertainty could be suggested ways to teach medical uncertainty. In this article, the authors describe the concepts of medical uncertainty, its influences on physicians and on medical students toward medical decision making, the role of tolerance/intolerance to uncertainty, and proposed strategies to improve coping with medical uncertainty.