Relationship of Online Learning Readiness with Self-Directed Learning and Information Technology Skills in Nursing and Midwifery Students

Introduction: In today's world, filled with technology and e-learning, readiness to participate in online educational environments is of great importance. Therefore, the present study was conducted with the aim of investigating the relationship between self-directed learning and information technology skills on the online learning readiness of nursing and midwifery students. Methods: This is an analytical cross-sectional study with a correlation design. The statistical population consisted of all nursing and midwifery students of the nursing and midwifery faculties of the Islamic Azad University of Mazandaran province, totaling 1,248 individuals in the academic year 2022-2023. A stratified random sampling method was employed, selecting 297 individuals (125 midwifery students and 172 nursing students) based on the Krejcie and Morgan table. Self-directed learning, information technology skills, and online learning were evaluated using questionnaires. The Kolmogorov-Smirnov test was used to assess the normality of the collected data. Data were analyzed in SPSS (version 16) using descriptive statistics, including mean, standard deviation by Pearson correlation coefficient statistics, and multiple linear regression at a significance level of 0.05. Results: According to multiple linear regression, the scores for online learning readiness were related to self-directed learning and information technology skills in nursing and midwifery students. The multiple correlation coefficient (R) was equal to 0.550. The coefficient of determination (R2) was equal to 0.492, which indicates that 49.2% of the changes in students' online learning readiness scores are explained by self-directed learning variables and their information technology skills. Conclusion: By recognizing and utilizing the distinct roles of self-directed learning and information technology skills, educators and policymakers can design support mechanisms based on the diverse needs of students. As a result, the online learning environment at Mazandaran Azad University can provide a more favorable and successful environment for students.