Comparison of knowledge, confidence in skill performance (CSP) and satisfaction in problem-based learning (PBL) and...

In most nursing curricula, simulation and problem-based learning (PBL) are used separately as individual learning methods. Nursing educators are in a unique position to improve students' clinical performance and critical thinking skills by utilizing varied educational modalities.

This study attempted to compare changes in nursing students' knowledge, confidence in skill performance (CSP), and satisfaction resulting from training using three educational modalities.

Data from a convenient sample of 205 senior nursing students from three nursing schools in Seoul and Chuncheon, South Korea, was obtained between September 1 and December 10, 2013.

This comparison study used three groups: the PBL group, simulation with the PBL group, and the control group. For data analysis, descriptive statistics, paired t-test, one-way ANOVA, and post-hoc tests (Duncan test) were performed.

No significant difference in the students' baseline knowledge of patient care for patients with bronchiolitis was found. There were significant differences in the mean scores of knowledge (F=14.718, p<.001), CSP (F=12.693, p<.001), and students' satisfaction (F=93.471, p<.001) among the three groups.

The positive impact of PBL and a combined learning method in this study suggests that it can be an effective approach in pediatric nursing practice. These results provide a much-needed template and starting point for educators introducing active learning approaches for pediatric nursing courses.