The relationship between virtual simulation, critical thinking, and self-directed learning abilities of nursing...

The use of virtual simulation in nursing education is an effective approach for improving nursing critical thinking and self-learning abilities, but the previous studies were limited to providing the required evidence that supports the association. This study aimed to assess the relationship between virtual simulation and critical thinking disposition and self-directed learning abilities among nursing students.

This is a descriptive correlational, non-experimental study. It was conducted among 201 third- and fourth-year nursing students at the Academic Institution, Saudi Arabia. A non-probability convenience sampling technique was used to select the participants; then, an online, adapted questionnaire was sent to the participants, the data from which was analyzed by SPSS.

The study findings showed that virtual simulation benefited nursing students. Most participants (56%) agreed that it helped them to think critically, and approximately 27% strongly agreed. It also enhanced their self-directed learning abilities, and the majority of the students agreed that they often review the way nursing practice is conducted. Furthermore, the results showed a significant, positive relationship between virtual simulation and the critical thinking disposition of nursing students (p-value = 0.03; correlation coefficient = 0.65), a strong positive relationship with self-directed learning abilities of nursing students (p-value = 0.004; correlation coefficient = 0.78), and a strong positive relationship between critical thinking disposition with self-directed learning abilities of nursing students (p-value = 0.01; correlation coefficient = 0.72).

There are significant relationships between virtual simulation and the critical thinking disposition and self-directed learning abilities of nursing students. Furthermore, virtual simulation made the students practice critical thinking and self-learning, so, they simulate events and try to seek out and solve the problems.