Self-Directed Learning Readiness Levels of Nursing Students

Aim: This descriptive study conducted to determine self-directed learning readiness levels of nursing students. Material and Method: Study was carried out with 256 nursing students enrolled in theoretical courses of nursing, during the 2008-2009 spring semester at Hacettepe University Faculty of Health Sciences Nursing Department. Data were collected by using Demographic information sheet and Self-directed Learning Readiness Scale. Chi square, Fisher Exact Chi square, Mean, Median and Percentages, were used for data analysis. Results: According to the findings, 76.6% of the students’ Self-directed Learning Readiness Levels total scores’ mean was found as 160.7 ± 21.4 above 150 cut-off point. There was no statistical difference between Self-directed Learning Readiness average scores and students’ age and educational level. However, statistically significant differences were found between the self-directed readiness level scores and students’ educational status (high school graduation average and academic performance, reasons for choosing nursing as career ) as well as their self-development behaviors (e.g. desire to continue with postgraduate study and reading habits). Conclusion: Nursing baccalaureate programs should include teaching methods (e.g. case study, etc.) that support self-development behaviors and self-directed learning experiences of students.