Assessment of self-directed learning readiness in nursing students of Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences

Introduction: Self-directed learning is one of the most practical competencies that makes a person independent in learning and paves lifelong learning. Due to the rapid growth of knowledge and technology in nursing, self-directed learning is more important. This study aimed to investigate the level of self-directed learning readiness in nursing students of Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences. Methods: In this cross-sectional study, the study population included bachelor and master nursing students studying in the second semester of the 2020-2021 academic years in the School of Nursing and Midwifery of Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences.  The sample size was estimated to be at least 225 students who were selected by stratified random-sampling among the students. A questionnaire consisting of two parts was used for data collection. The first part of the questionnaire included the demographic data of the participants. The second part assessed the level of self-directed learning readiness of students by Gaglilmino's self-directed learning questionnaire. Results: A total of 225 students (68% female) participated in the study. The average total score of students from the self-directed learning readiness questionnaire was 214.44±19.05. Eight percent of students had a low level, 13.8% had a medium level, and 78.2% had a high level of self-directed learning readiness. There was a statistically significant relationship between age (P=0.003) and gender (P=0.04) of students with their level of self-directed learning readiness. There was no statistically significant relationship between students' educational level and self-directed learning readiness. Conclusions: Nursing students of Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences have a relatively high level of self-directed learning readiness. However, reviewing the educational programs of nursing students at the bachelor and master levels (more emphasis on group learning and critical thinking) and paying attention to the student-centered principle in the educational process can improve students' skills in this area.