Health Commun.  2021 Dec;16(2):145-153. 10.15715/kjhcom.2021.16.2.145.

The effect of communication competency on self-directed learning ability among nursing students

• Kim JA

• KMID: 2526427
• DOI: http://doi.org/10.15715/kjhcom.2021.16.2.145

Abstract

Background
This study was conducted to identify the level of communication competency essential for cooperation with health care teams and self-directed learning ability necessary to solve problems efficiently. Furthermore, an analysis was conducted to confirm the effect of communication competency upon self-directed learning ability among nursing students.
Methods
This study involved 321 nursing students. Data collection was conducted through online survey about the communication competency and the self-directed learning ability.
Results
The main results were as follows. The communication competency score of participants was 3.53±0.54(M±SD) out of 5 points and the self-directed learning ability score was 3.71±0.55. There was a significant correlation between communication competency and all domains of self-directed learning ability. As a result of simple linear regression analysis, higher communication skills also increased self-directed learning skills, showing 38.3% explanatory power.
Conclusion
There is a need for teaching and learning strategy that allows students who have low grades and low major interest, and chose a major by recommendation to more actively engage in learning activities. Since the self-directed learning ability can be improved by improving communication competency, programs for communication, continuity of learning activities and utilization of learning resources are needed.

Keyword

Communication competency; Self-directed learning ability; Nursing students