Comparison of nurses' self-directed learning activities

This study compares the self-directed learning (SDL) practices of baccalaureate (40) and master's (40) nurses. Using a personal interview format, nurses were queried as to the number and nature of their SDL projects. Based on the study data, nurses spend a greater portion of their SDL time on professional area content. Respondents indicated they spend an average of 313 hours per year on independent learning projects with 217 of those hours on professional topics. Master's-prepared nurses spend more time per year (398 hours) and slightly more time on professional content (71%) compared to the time baccalaureate-prepared nurses spend per year (230 hours) on professional content (67%). Implications for nursing education are identified with respect to learner motivation and accessibility of materials.