The Concept Analysis of “Independent-learning” with University Nursing Students in Classes : Text Mining

Abstract

〔Aim〕The aim of this study was to clarify the concept of “independent learning” in nursing education through interviews with nursing students who were actively learning at nursing universities.

〔Method〕Text mining（hierarchical cluster analysis）of content from interviews with 11 nursing students（first to fourth year students）from Nursing University A regarding independent learning.

〔Results〕Nine clusters were extracted, namely “individual learning through reflection of class content,” “enjoyment of learning,” “sparking intellectual interest,” “encouragement from within the same student cohort,” “being stimulated by students from other student cohorts,” “impact from a suitable study environment,” “modular learning system,” “deepening of interest through interconnections,” and “awareness of the significance of learning.”

〔Conclusions〕Our findings suggest that nursing students view the term “independent learning” as the practice of self-controlled learning methods and cooperative learning activities, and nursing students are motivated by an awareness of learning objectives and positive experiences that promote learning.