Readiness for self-directed learning among paramedic students in Jordan: A multi-institutional study

Area of Science:

• Healthcare Education
• Medical Training
• Paramedic Programs

Background:

• Self-directed learning (SDL) is crucial for healthcare professionals.
• Assessing SDL readiness is vital for effective training in paramedicine.
• This study focuses on paramedic students in Jordan.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the level of self-directed learning readiness among paramedic students in Jordan.
• To identify factors associated with self-directed learning readiness in this population.

Main Methods:

• Cross-sectional descriptive study design.
• Online self-administered questionnaire distributed to paramedic students across three Jordanian institutions.
• The Self-Directed Learning Readiness Scale (SDLRS) was used for assessment.

Main Results:

• 529 paramedic students participated.
• 57.1% demonstrated high self-directed learning readiness (score > 150).
• High SDL readiness was associated with male gender (p=0.039) and high academic performance (p=0.006).

Conclusions:

• Paramedic students in Jordan exhibit a high prevalence of readiness for self-directed learning.
• Despite high prevalence, the overall mean SDLRS score was notably low compared to literature.
• Developing targeted strategies to enhance SDL skills for students and faculty is recommended.