Determinants of readiness towards self-directed learning among nurses and midwives: Results from national survey

Abstract

An ever-changing and challenging patient care environment requires nurses and midwives to embrace the concept of lifelong learning through a self-directed learning (SDL) approach. This study aims to evaluate nurses and midwives' readiness towards self-directed learning (SDRL) in Brunei Darussalam. A cross sectional descriptive study was conducted. Using a non-proportional quota sampling method, 700 questionnaires were distributed among nurses and midwives working in four District Government Hospitals in Brunei. Fisher's Self Directed Learning Readiness Scale was used to explore readiness towards SDL among nurses and midwives. In total, 616 completed questionnaires were returned (representing a response rate of 88%). Results indicated a high level of readiness towards self-directed learning among the participants with a total mean SDLR score of 158.44 ± 16.00. In overall comparison, the mean score of domains were: self-management (49.21), desire for learning (50.12) and self-control (59.10). This national hospital survey concludes that graduateness, workplace, age and marital status determine readiness towards self-directed learning among nurses and midwives in Brunei. Future research should focus on a theoretical framework for SDL models and the impact of these models on quality nursing practice.

Keywords: Continuing nurse education; Lifelong learning; Midwives; Nurses; Readiness; Self-directed learning.