Readiness for Self-directed Learning amongst First-year Medical Undergraduates in the Northern Part of Kerala, India: A Quasi-experimental Study

Introduction: The ability for independent learning is considered a critical component for university graduates to engage in continuous learning. Self-directed Learning (SDL) is necessary for learners to transition from passive to active learners. With the implementation of competency-based education, the concept of SDL is becoming increasingly important in undergraduate teaching. However, many students find the concept of self-learning unfamiliar, causing them undue anxiety. The improvement of lifelong learning thus depends critically on having an effective understanding of SDL skills. Aim: To assess the readiness for SDL and emphasise the need for assessing students' readiness towards SDL.Materials and Methods: This quasi-experimental study involved 100 first-year medical students who provided informed consent. Readiness for SDL was determined using the Fisher SDL Readiness Scale (SDLRS). An SDLRS score of >150 is considered an acceptable level of SDL readiness. Six SDL sessions were conducted, and participants were assessed based on their performance in SDL. The study participants were grouped as high, mid, and low achievers, and their SDLRS scores were correlated. The data obtained were statistically analysed using descriptive and inferential statistics.Results: The median SDLRS score was 149, with 54 (54%) of students scoring below the acceptable level of 150. The median scores for the subscale of self-management were statistically high (p-value<0.001) among the high achievers. The SDLRS scores and SDL session test scores of the three groups of students showed a significant moderate positive correlation (r-value=0.356, p-value<0.001).Conclusion: The present study concluded that 54% of medical students scored below the acceptable level on the SDLRS, and there was a moderate positive correlation between SDLRS scores and SDL session test performance.