Dynamics of self-directed learning in M.Sc. nursing students: A qualitative research

Working in the complex and ever changing healthcare settings forces the nurses and nursing students to be equipped with lifelong learning skills. One of the lifelong learning skills is self-directed learning. This study aimed to explore the M.Sc. nursing students' self-directed learning activities.

A qualitative design using conventional content analysis approach was used in this study. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with twelve Iranian M.Sc. nursing students who were selected using purposive sampling.

Data analysis indicated that the M.Sc. nursing students performed different activities in their self-directed learning. These activities were categorized into four main themes and ten subthemes. The main themes were "sensory perceptions", "knowledge construction", "problem-centered orientation", and "interaction with others".

According to the findings, the M.Sc. nursing students performed different intellectual and experiential self-directed activities for promoting their learning. Besides, the students' perseverance and inquisitiveness played an important role in their self-directed learning in the challenging clinical environments.