Self-directed learning (SDL) is a method of learning, where the students or the learner understand the subject and master its contents at their own speed.  The main feature of the SDL includes self-determination, learner control and self-education. In modern world, self-directed learning has become an effective model for adult education, medical field andbusiness. In medical education where knowledge is boundless and being boosted constantly; the SDL has become an essential part of adult learning. The knowledge obtained from SDL will last for a longer period than knowledge gained by any other method. The method of learning through problem-based learning (PBL) also assimilates the elements of SDL instruction in its model. The impact of SDL, such as the extent to which people perceive themselvescan be assessed by assessment tools whichmeasurethe required learning skills and attitudes. Inrecent years the researchers around the world has shown lot of interest in self-directed learning. Recently, there are numerous new programs and resources such as computer-assisted learning electronic networking, self-help books, support groups and Open University programsavailable for promoting SDL. In this article, we have reviewed the trend in self-directed learning with its perspective in the organ system based integrated curriculum (OSBIC) at Gulf Medical University Ajman, United Arab Emirates.

KEYWORDS: Adult learning; Self-directed learning; Self-regulated learning; Distance learning.