Background: There is a concern that traditional instruction based methods of learning do not adequately prepare students for the challenges of physical therapy practice. Self-directed learning is considered to be the most appropriate educational approach to enhance life-long learning as it enhances self-efficacy. This study compares outcomes in two educational approaches: self-directed learning (SDL), and traditional instruction based learning (IBL).
Methods: In this non-randomized experimental study two groups of second year physiotherapy students were compared using pre-post-test assessments. Study results (both knowledge and physiotherapy performance), and self-reported self-efficacy were used as outcome variables. Study results from the end of year 1 and the end of year two were retrieved form the student information system. Self-reported variables including general and physical therapy self-efficacy were assessed using an online questionnaire which was completed at the start and the end of year two. Changes in self-efficacy were analysed using a repeated measures multivariate ANOVA.
Results: A total of 174 students were enrolled in the second year, of which 108 (62%) agreed to participate in the online questionnaire. The online questionnaire at baseline (September 2015) was completed by 27 students in the SDL condition compared to 81 students in the IBL condition. There were no statistical differences at baseline between both educational approaches on any of the variables in the study. At the end of year two, there was no difference between both conditions in indicators of study results: knowledge and performance. Perceived self-efficacy in functioning as a physical therapist increased between both assessments. However, this increase was observed in both condition, and the difference between both conditions was not statistically significant.
Conclusions: Self-directed learning and traditional instruction based learning result in equal study outcome and self-efficacy at the end of year two. More research is needed to determine the long term outcome that is most relevant for lifelong learning, and which students will benefit most from this approach. Nonetheless, self-directed learning might be an important alternative for instruction-based l education.
Keywords: Experimental study; Physical therapy education; Self-directed learning.