In self-directed learning, students take the initiative to identify learning goals, choose learning strategies, and evaluate learning outcomes. This study aimed to explore the effects of a self-directed clinical practicum on nursing students' self-confidence and satisfaction with the clinical practicum. This mixed-methods study used a non-equivalent control group with a pre- and post-test quasi-experimental design and content analysis. Participants were 111 nursing students (experimental group = 55, control group = 56). Quantitative (self-confidence and satisfaction with the clinical practicum) and qualitative (reflective diaries) data were collected. The experimental group had significantly increased scores for self-confidence and satisfaction with the clinical practicum compared with the control group. Four themes regarding the experience of the self-directed clinical practicum were identified: perceived linking of academic knowledge and practice, perceived development of nursing competency, enjoying the clinical practicum, and establishing nursing identity as a student. The self-directed clinical practicum developed as part of this study was found to be an effective education method for nursing students.
Keywords: clinical practicum; personal satisfaction; self-confidence; self-directed learning.