The Effects of Team-Based Learning on Problem Solving Ability, Critical Thinking Disposition and Self-Directed Learning in Undergraduate Nursing Students

Abstract

Purpose: The purpose of this study was to examine the effects of team-based learning (TBL) program on problem solving ability, critical thinking disposition and self-directed learning in junior nursing students caring for patients with respiratory diseases. Methods: One-group pretest-posttest design was used. TBL program was carried out for 2 hours a week for 6 weeks. Data were collected by questionnaires from 167 nursing students from March 6 to June 5, 2013. Data were analyzed by paired t-test and Pearson correlation coefficient. Results: At the completion of TBL program, significant improvement was found in problem solving ability (t=-6.04, p<.001), critical thinking disposition (t=5.02, p<.001) and self-directed learning (t=5.96, p<.001). There was a significant positive correlation among problem solving ability, critical thinking disposition and self-directed learning. Conclusion: In conclusion, TBL is a useful teaching and learning method on nursing students. We suggest that it is needed to measure the educational effects of TBL against other teaching methods in the future studies.