Self - directed learning among nursing students at Nguyen tat Thanh University

Aims: The objective of the study is to determine self-directed learning (SDL) among nursing students and identify associated factors. Methodology: A descriptive cross-sectional study was carried out of 316 nursing students from March to July 2024 at Nguyen Tat Thanh University. Self-Directed Learning Readiness Scale for Nursing Education (SDLRSNE)was used to collect the information regarding self – directed learning of nursing students. Results: The majority of participants were female (83.2%). The proportions of students from year 1 to year 4 are 9.5%, 20.3%, 53.8%, 16.5% respectively. Of these, 57% of them have attained a good level of GPA and 21.5% of nursing students were at a very good level of GPA. More than a half of participants (59,8%) have spent 1 to 3 hours per day for self - study, while only 10.8% have spent more than 6 hours per day for self – study.  43.4% of participants have had a part – time job. The majority (54.4%) of the students rated moderate level of readiness to self- directed learning readiness. Meanwhile, 42.3% had a high level of readiness to self-directed learning. Moreover, the mean score of self – directed learning among nursing students was 148 (SD: 18.0). The mean score of self – management; desire for learning; self – control domains were 45.02; 49.1; 48.10 respectively. There was an association between self – directed learning of nursing students and their year of study, GPA, and time for self – study. Conclusion: The study highlights the strengths and weaknesses in nursing students' SDL skills, emphasizing the need for educational strategies that focus on improving self-management and self-control while capitalizing on their existing desire for learning. By addressing these areas, nursing education programs can better prepare students for lifelong learning in their professional careers.