The relationship between intrinsic motivation and learning outcomes in problem-based learning

Abstract

Purpose: The purpose of this study was to identify the relationship between intrinsic motivation and learning outcomes of nursing college students who took the Fundamentals of nursing as a problem-based learning method. Methods: In this cross-sectional study, we identified the intrinsic motivations of 114 nursing students who completed problem-based learning using the Intrinsic Motivation Inventory. The t-test was conducted to identify differences according to intrinsic motivation, and correlation analysis was performed to confirm the relationship between intrinsic motivation and learning outcomes. Results: The group with higher intrinsic motivation showed higher scores in all domains of self-assessed learning outcomes than the lower group. It was the 'Relatedness with an instructor' that showed the highest correlation with the learning outcomes in the domains of intrinsic motivation. Conclusion: Problem-based learning is an effective learning method for cultivating the competencies needed for nurses. The intrinsic motivation of students is an important factor in the performance of problem-based learning. For the efficiency of problem-based learning, efforts should be made to develop and apply autonomy-supportive interventions that can enhance intrinsic motivation.