7kis chapter articulates the connection between self-directed learning (SDL) and the learning organization. Although there is much literature on developing learning organizations and there has been some work addressing SDL in the workplace, there is a paucity of work analyzing the connection between selfdirected learners and their place in a learning organization. An analysis of the literature on both learning organizations and SDL, howevel; identifies learning environments that are strikingly similal: This chapter explicates these relationships and proposes some recommendationsfor practice andforfitwe research.A key characteristic of the learning organization is the ability of its members to find or make opportunities to learn from whatever resource or situation is available and to add value to the organization by converting individual information into organizational knowledge (Nonaka and Takeuchi, 1995). Literature describing learning organizations articulates the importance that the individual has in building and maintaining the learning organization. Yet the literature has paid little attention to the means by which these individuals obtain the knowledge they need to function effectively in such an organization.The capacity of individuals to contribute to this knowledge base is largely determined by their capacity to be self-directed learners. SDL has been defined as "the learners' psychological processes that are purposively and consciously controlled, or directed, for the purpose of gaining knowledge and understanding, solving problems, and developing or strengthening a skill" (Long, 1994, p. 14). Long noted that SDL is often associated with setting goals, selecting learning resources, and managing time. Together, these characteristics suggest that self-directed individuals reflect, assess, and evaluate rather than uncritically accept and internalize information.

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Various aspects of self‐directed learning have been accepted as a continuing professional education alternative for practitioners of medicine in Canada and of architecture in the United States.

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