Self-directed learning : status of final year students and perceptions of faculty leadership in a Nigerian medical school : a mixed analysis study
Date
2014-12
Authors
Nottidge, Timothy Eyo
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
Stellenbosch : Stellenbosch University
Abstract
ENGLISH ABSTRACT: Introduction: Self-directed learning (SDL) is the essential mechanism of lifelong learning which, in
turn, is required for medical professionals to maintain competency due to advancing
technology and constantly evolving disease care and contexts. Yet, Nigerian medical
schools do not actively strive to develop self-directed learning skills in medical
students, neither is it implemented in the College of Health Sciences, University of
Uyo (COHUU). - Aim of study : The aim of this study was to evaluate the status of self-directed learning behaviour
amongst final year students, and the perceptions of faculty leadership towards SDL
in a Nigerian medical school. - Methodology:
A mixed method research method was used for the study. A survey design, in which
students completed a self-rating scale for self-directed learning as a means of
quantitatively assessing their self-directed learning behaviour, was employed. A
focus group discussion involving selected faculty leaders provided the qualitative
data for this study. - Results:
The medical students displayed moderate self-directed learning behaviour, based on
the score on the Self-rating Scale for Self-Directed Learning (SRSSDL). Thematic
analysis of the qualitative data revealed that the faculty leadership perceived SDL as
essentially self-motivated learning by students in a task-sharing partnership with and
guided by, their teachers. Faculty expressed concerns over a possible
misunderstanding of what SDL implies for students. They furthermore considered
their students’ SDL behaviour to be low. Faculty was willing to implement a COHUU
model for achieving SDL. - Conclusion: This study suggests the baseline SDL behaviour of medical students at University of
Uyo to be low to moderate, based on both the perceptions of Faculty leadership and
the SRSSDL. Faculty are willing to implement a COHUU model for achieving SDL.
Description
Thesis (MPhil)--Stellenbosch University, 2014.
Keywords
UCTD, Theses -- Health sciences education, Dissertations -- Health sciences education, Self study -- Nigeria, Independent study -- Nigeria, Adult learning, Self-culture -- Nigeria, Medical students -- Nigeria