ABSTRACT
Within construction management, there has been a great deal of interest in problem based learning in recent times. However the requirement for self directed learning inherent in such teaching methods has not fitted comfortably within traditional teaching programs. With the current trend toward student evaluation of teaching quality and the trend back to fees for courses, self directed learning is under further pressure.
This paper examines the implications for developing higher degree students from within traditional programs, and the need to develop self directed learning skills as a pre-requisite to research training. It is suggested that research excellence will not be realised without an early culture of self directed learning.
