Investigating Validity and Reliability of Guglielmino´s Self-directed Learning Readiness Scale (SDLRS) among Medical and Dentistry Students

Introduction: In order to foster lifelong learning, abilities among students, faculties need to have an appropriate instrument to measure the SDLR abilities of medical students. The objectives of this study were to validate Guglielmino´s SDLRS to measure the SDL abilities of medical and dentistry students and to test the reliability of this instrument. Methods: In this cross-sectional study using the systematic sampling method, 355 pre-internship medical and dentistry students studying in Islamic Azad University- Khorasgan and Najaf Abad branches took the survey in 2009. The participants completed Guglilmino´s self-directed learning readiness scale (SDLRS). The scale has 58 items in 8 subscales. Data were analyzed through using Cronbach´s Alpha, Spearman- Brown, and Guttman correlation coefficients and confirmatory factor analysis by Lisrel software. Results: The resulting SDLRS consisted of 58 items across the following eight factors: Openness to learning opportunities, self-concept as an effective learner, initiation and independence in learning, informed acceptance of responsibility for one´s own learning, love of learning, creativity, ability to use basic study skills, and problem solving skills. The final model in confirmatory factor analysis reveald that 55 items indicated a good fit of model (RMR =0-0.08, RMSEA=0.063, p=0.000-0.003, df=0-35, χ2=0-86.81). The value of Cronbach´s Alpha showed that all 8 factors had suitable internal consistency coefficients and reliability was 0.94 for the whole scale. Conclusion: The Guglielmino´s self-directed learning readiness scale is a valid and reliable instrument for identifying SDLR abilities, skills and attitudes among medical and dentistry students.