Nursing students' response to self-directed learning: an evaluation of a learning process applying Jarvis' framework

Area of Science:

• Nursing Education
• Pedagogy
• Experiential Learning

Background:

• Literature suggests students often dislike experiential learning methods.
• There is a need for progressive, student-focused educational approaches in nursing.
• Evaluating the effectiveness of novel teaching strategies is crucial for professional preparation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the effectiveness of a student-centred learning module.
• To explore student experiences within an experiential learning framework based on Jarvis' model.
• To assess the benefits and learning outcomes of the student-centred module.

Main Methods:

• A student-centred module was implemented over nine months.
• One hundred and thirty-five students participated in the module.
• Data were collected via semi-structured questionnaires and analyzed using descriptive statistics and content analysis.

Main Results:

• A beneficial learning experience was a key emergent theme.
• Other themes included improved presentation skills, shared learning, increased choice and autonomy, and enhanced research skills.
• The module demonstrated effectiveness despite literature suggesting student aversion to experiential learning.

Conclusions:

• Jarvis' experiential framework effectively structures student-centred learning.
• Student-centred experiential learning can be highly effective in nursing education.
• Academic nursing departments should prioritize developing and evaluating student-focused educational methods.