I stated previously that my interpretation of self-directed learning is as a method to achieve an overall constructivist-learning outcome. Since then, I have been considering this standard of judgement to help focus on the qualities, which improvements in my teaching methods will require to ‘live this theory’.

Let me clarify that I would like my students to be self-directed in their learning intrinsically, through interest in the integration of computer technology as a learning tool and interest in the subject to be learnt. I see both of these elements as having an affect on each other. When students enjoy a subject they will take control of managing their own learning ,that is, deciding how much they want. I wish to offer these students the opportunity to do this with ICT. For the student who has difficulty learning a subject through traditional methods integrating computer technology in their learning experience may help them build up their interest in the subject matter as they approach it in a way that suits them.

I do not aspire at this stage, to use learning through technology as a means to radically change a student’s ability to be self-directing in all aspects of their present or future learning.

It is a widely held argument that methods of instruction that emphasis and encourage self-direction in learning will arouse curiosity, enhance people’s self-concept as learners, and increase information-seeking behaviours. This in turn will carry over to the independent pursuit of learning opportunities both beyond and outside formal instructional settings. (Candy,1991). This should result in students taking responsibility for their own learning rather than feeling obliged to learn for their teacher, their employer, the reward of certification etc.

The students that I am focusing on are Apprentices. This means that their learning "in college" has a relevance to their everyday "on-job" learning and vis-versa. Because of this their learning environment is already diverse in a number of ways. However, each student construes their own learning environment by deriving knowledge from different situations and experiences during their apprenticeship. I believe this to be constructivist learning. Self-directed learning through ICT will give the students another experience to add to their knowledge base.