Examining the Learning Characteristics of Nursing Students: A Literature Review

Abstract

Background: Research findings have revealed that some students are not prepared to face the challenges associated with online learning, and attrition rates have been found to be a major concern. This review aimed to investigate the learning characteristics nursing students need before enrolling in online learning to ensure success. Method: Electronic databases were searched to investigate the learning characteristics of students for the literature review. Results: The search identified a final selection of 24 quantitative and qualitative studies. Readiness to learn, self-efficacy, motivation, persistence, and autonomy are learning characteristics for students to possess when enrolling in online learning environments. However, not all students have these learning characteristics; thus, their learning needs should be assessed. Conclusion: More mixed-methods and randomized control trial studies are needed to examine online students' learning characteristics. Nurse educators must evaluate their students to investigate whether online learning fits their learning goals. [ J Nurs Educ . 2021;60(4):209–215.]

Returning to school

“…4 When searching through various school and degree options and trying to decipher the unfamiliar language of school catalogs, students may feel these are unachievable time-consuming tasks to accomplish. Cadet 5 reported that when nursing students are not prepared for online learning in particular, attrition rates increase. To combat this issue, students need to consider components such as a plan of study, student services, and clinical site placements and review each school' s educational options (in-person, online, or a hybrid) to determine which will best fit their lifestyle.…”