Self-paced learning

Definition- Teach-yourself method of learning that is initiated and directed by the learner.It's a learning method that provide a convenient alternative to the traditional classroom:
Reading a book to acquire new information about a topic.
Reading a book, listening to accompanying audiotapes and completing exercises in a workbook.
Reading a reference manual and watching a video.
Completing a computer-assisted learning (CAL) course that uses interactive computer modules for knowledge transfer and one-on-one work with the clinical trainer for skills transfer, first with models and then with clients.

It has several advantages:
Learners can learn information and skills when they need them.
Learners are not as dependent on the structure and pace established by the trainer.
Assuming control of the learning process is highly motivating for many learners.
Each learner has the same level of participation in the learning process. Participants are active rather than passive, and assume greater responsibility for their own learning.
Because most self-paced learning courses allow participants to begin and end a segment of the training course at any time, it is an efficient use of training time and resources.
Learning activities can be organized sequentially.

But is not a benefit for all:
Most participants have not learned this way before, so they may feel uncomfortable with learning on their own.
Participants may lack the necessary motivation to work independently.
Participants may have poor reading skills, especially when the language of the reference materials is different from their primary language. Because most self-paced learning approaches require reading, this can be a major limitation.
Participants may possess poor time management skills. Procrastination may make the self-paced learning process less effective than it can be.
Most trainers did not learn this way and therefore need training to become effective facilitators of self-paced learning.
Trainers may feel that they do not have time to manage a self-paced learning system.
It may be challenging and time-consuming to design and develop the appropriate learning materials, in either print or electronic format.