Learning approach and trait anxiety on paramedic and nursing students

Abstract

Introduction Learning approach and anxiety are important factors in the quality of education. This study was carried out to measure learning approach and trait anxiety levels on paramedic and nursing students. Methods This cross-sectional study – undertaken between July and December 2016 – aimed to evaluate paramedic and nursing students studying in Ankara in Turkey. A survey system was used for data collection utilising the Revised Two Factor Study Process Questionnaire and State-Trait Anxiety Inventory methods. The SPSS statistical package program was used to analyse the data. The Kolmogorov-Smirnov test, the Mann Whitney-U test, the t-test, Spearman correlation analysis and multiple regression analysis were used for data analysis. Results It was determined that students preferred deep learning; over half of the students were observed to demonstrate lower anxiety levels using this method. As a sub-dimension of surface learning, surface motive was more expressively preferred by the paramedic students. Statistically, no significant relationship was observed between study process and trait anxiety. Conclusion Developing deep learning education systems and creating an environment to reduce anxiety is beneficial to students. Further research should be undertaken to determine the relationship between learning approach, socio-demographic characteristics and anxiety.