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Assessing readiness for self-directed learning within a non-traditional nursing cohort

Phillips, Brian N., Turnbull, Beverley J. and He, Flora X. (2015). Assessing readiness for self-directed learning within a non-traditional nursing cohort. Nurse Education Today,35(3):e1-e7.

Document type: Journal Article
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IRMA ID 84377429xPUB38
Title Assessing readiness for self-directed learning within a non-traditional nursing cohort
Author Phillips, Brian N.
Turnbull, Beverley J.
He, Flora X.
Journal Name Nurse Education Today
Publication Date 2015
Volume Number 35
Issue Number 3
ISSN 1532-2793   (check CDU catalogue open catalogue search in new window)
Scopus ID 2-s2.0-84923594164
Start Page e1
End Page e7
Total Pages 1
Place of Publication United Kingdom
Publisher Churchill Livingstone
Field of Research 1110 - Nursing
HERDC Category C1 - Journal Article (DIISR)
Abstract Increasing deregulation of the Australian tertiary system has led to changes in entry behaviours anticipated in non-traditional student cohorts. Many nursing students are returning to formal studies later in their lives seeking a career change. Accessibility and flexible study paths make external study increasingly attractive. However external studies require a level of commitment and willingness to develop self-direction and a capacity for resilience.

This study sought to elicit the level of self-directed learning readiness (SDLR) among undergraduate nursing students currently enrolled at a bachelor level, and to elicit what differences existed in the levels of SDLR in relation to age, gender, academic year, and previous qualifications.

An online survey questionnaire was utilised based on the Self-directed Learning Readiness Scale for Nursing Education. In contrast to earlier work, the participant profile in this study was predominantly non-traditional and captured participants from all three years of the nursing programme.

Results found no significant age or gender differences. First year students demonstrated lower levels of self-directed learning readiness. However, unexpected results were demonstrated in the survey subscales in relation to previous qualifications. Participants who already held post-graduate qualifications showed lower scores for Self-Management than those who held diploma qualifications, while students who already held a bachelor's degree had the highest scores in Desire for Learning. The study findings suggest that universities should not assume that SDL capability is dependent on mature age or length of exposure to tertiary study.
Keywords Self-directed learning readiness
Students
Nursing education
On-line learning
DOI http://dx.doi.org/10.1016/j.nedt.2014.12.003   (check subscription with CDU E-Gateway service for CDU Staff and Students  check subscription with CDU E-Gateway in new window)
 
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