The Effects of Simulation Practice Education Applying Problem-based Learning on Problem Solving Ability, Critical Thinking and Learning Satisfaction of Nursing Students

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to determine the effects of simulation practice education applying problem-based learning on problem-solving ability, critical thinking disposition, and learning satisfaction of nursing students. 63 nursing students taking the practice subject for integrated simulation at U University in K region were asked to complete a self-administered questionnaire to collect data before and after the simulation practice. The simulation practice education applying problem-based learning was effective in improving problem-solving ability and learning satisfaction significantly and positive correlation was found among problem-solving ability, critical thinking disposition, and learning satisfaction; that is, the better problem-solving ability, the higher level of critical thinking disposition and learning satisfaction. While the results of this study conducted in nursing students at a single university cannot be generalized, it was confirmed that simulation practice education applying problem-based learning was an effective teaching method in improving problem-solving ability and learning satisfaction of nursing students. It is therefore necessary to give simulation practice education applying problem-based learning on a systematic and continuous basis with the objective of improving problem-solving ability and learning satisfaction and promoting critical thinking disposition.