The Effects of PBL (Problem-Based Learning) on the Self-Directed Learning, Critical Thinking Disposition, and Problem Solving Process of Nursing students

Abstract

Purpose: The purpose of this research was to evaluate the effects of PBL on ability of nursing students in Self-Directed Learning, Critical Thinking Disposition and Problem Solving Process. Methods: The research design was a nonequivalent control group pretest-posttest design. For the experimental group PBL was used during one semester (14 weeks). Instruments for data collection were Self-Directed Learning Readiness Scale (Kim, 1997), Critical Thinking Disposition Scale (K won et al., 2006) and Problem Solving Process Scale (Lee, 1979). The data were analyzed by repeated measure ANOVA. Results: There were statistically significant improvements in Self-Directed Learning and Critical Thinking between the two groups after PBL. But there was no statistically significant improvement in the Problem Solving Process. Conclusion: These results suggest that PBL has a positive effect on nursing students' education. Therefore, PBL should be used for more subjects in the nursing curriculum.