The influence of self-directed learning ability and peer group caring behaviors on confidence in performing core nursing skills in fundamental nursing practice education utilizing peer evaluation: A mixed methods study

Objectives This study is investigated to identify the level of nursing students' self-directed learning abilities, peer group caring behaviors, and confidence in performing core nursing skills utilizing peer evaluation in fundamental nursing practical education, and to explore peer evaluation learning experiences of core nursing skills. Methods A concurrent triangulation mixed methods design was used. Quantitative data were collected from 109 second-year nursing students attending a university in G province, while qualitative data were collected through focus group interviews with 17 participants from December 8 to 16, 2021. Quantitative data were analyzed using SPSS 23.0 program and qualitative data were analyzed using thematic analysis. Results Quantitative data showed that there was a significant positive correlation between nursing students' confidence in performing core nursing and self-directed learning ability as well as peer caregroup caring behaviors. The most influential factor on the confidence in performing core nursing skills was self-directed learning ability (β=.29, p=.003), followed by peer group caring behaviors, (β=.25, p=.008), and interest in fundamental nursing practicum classes (β=.21, p=.019), respectively. As a result of the qualitative study, three themes and ten sub-themes were derived, and the themes were “peer evaluation promoting self-directed learning ability”, “peer evaluation for mutual growth with colleagues”, “peer evaluation facilitating improvement in confidence in performing core nursing skills”. Conclusions To improve nursing students' confidence in performing core nursing skills, it is necessary to develop a fundamental nursing practice education program that promotes self-directed learning ability and enhances caring competence through peer group caring behaviors.