The Effects of Problem-Based Learning on Self-Determined Motivation, Self-directed Learning Abilities, Problem Solving Process in Nursing Students

Objectives This study is a single-group pre-post quasi-experimental study aimed at applying problem-based learning and identifying changes in self-determined learning motivation, self-directed learning ability, and problem-solving process. Methods The subjects of the study were 142 fourth-year nursing students at a university located in the U city who took adult nursing courses and agreed to participate in this study. Data were collected by self filling out questionnaires on self-determination learning motivation, self-directed learning ability, and problem-solving process before and after problem-based learning. The collected data were analyzed using SPSS 26.0 to determine frequency and percentage, mean and standard deviation, and differences in variables before and after problem-based learning using paired t-test, and the relationships between variables were analyzed using Pearson's correlation analysis. Results After problem-based learning, overall classes, the nursing students are self-determination learning motivation (t=-4.29, p<.001) and among the sub-domains of self-determination learning motivation, evaluation identified regulation (t=-2.12, p=.036), and intrinsic motivation (t=-5.13, p<.001) were significant improved. Self-directed learning ability (t=-4.31, p<.001) and among the sub-domains of Self-directed learning ability, management of learning process (t=-4.94, p<.001), evaluation of learning outcome (t=-3.38, p=.001), ego concepts (t=-2.06, p=.041), continuity of learning (t=-2.99, p=.003), and management of learning resource use (t=-3.41, p=.001) were significantly improved. In addition, problem solving process (t=-6.42, p<.001), and among the sub-domains of problem solving process, clarifying problem (t=-4.45, p<.001), seeking a solution (t=-4.86, p<.001), decision making (t=-3.72, p<.001), applying the solution (t=-5.04, p<.001), and evaluation and reflection (t=-4.72, p<.001) were signficantly improved. Conclusions This study was confirmed that classes applying problem-based learning are an effective teaching and learning method in improving nursing students' self-determined learning motivation, self-directed learning ability, and problem-solving process.