Measuring Readiness for Self-Directed Learning in Medical Undergraduates

Area of Science:

• Medical Education
• Learning Sciences

Background:

• Self-directed learning (SDL) is crucial for lifelong learning in medicine.
• Evaluating students' readiness for SDL is essential for optimizing educational interventions.

Purpose of the Study:

• To measure the readiness for self-directed learning among medical students.
• To evaluate the self-directed learning capabilities within the study population.

Main Methods:

• A survey was administered to undergraduate medical students using Fisher's readiness scale.
• The scale assessed self-management, desire for learning, and self-control.
• Data were analyzed using Mann-Whitney U-test and correlation analyses.

Main Results:

• A total of 96 students responded, with mean readiness and domain scores reported.
• The clinical group scored higher in self-management than the preclinical group (P=0.03).
• Significant positive correlations were found between self-control, desire for learning, and self-management domains.

Conclusions:

• Readiness for self-directed learning in this cohort was moderate.
• Findings indicate that self-directed learning alone may not guarantee optimal student learning.
• Strategies to enhance students' readiness for independent learning are recommended.