title: Role of Self-Directed Learning in Communication Competence and Self-Efficacy.
abstract: BACKGROUND
  Although effective self-directed learning (SDL) has been shown to improve clinical performance, little is known about its role between communication competence and communication self-efficacy in nursing students. This study aimed to identify whether SDL mediates the relationship between communication competence and communication self-efficacy.
  
  
  METHODS
  A cross-sectional survey was conducted with a sample of 213 nursing students taking a basic fundamentals of nursing course. A path diagram, using structural equation modeling, was used to estimate the direct and indirect effects of communication competence on communication self-efficacy, controlling for SDL as a mediator.
  
  
  RESULTS
  A structural equation model confirmed direct and indirect effects of communication competence on communication self-efficacy when SDL was controlled as a mediator. An appropriate fit to the data was identified in this mediation model of SDL.
  
  
  CONCLUSIONS
  For enhancing self-efficacy regarding communication skill, the specified SDL program based on the level of communication competence will yield more effective results.
authors.forename: Youngshin
authors.initials: Y
authors.lastname: Song
authors.forename: Soon Young
authors.initials: SY
authors.lastname: Yun
authors.forename: Sun-Ae
authors.initials: SA
authors.lastname: Kim
authors.forename: Eun-Kyong
authors.initials: EK
authors.lastname: Ahn
authors.forename: Mi Sook
authors.initials: MS
authors.lastname: Jung
mesh_terms: D000328:Adult; D002983:Clinical Competence; D003142:Communication; D003430:Cross-Sectional Studies; D003479:Curriculum; D004504:Education, Medical, Undergraduate; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D056910:Republic of Korea; D020377:Self Efficacy; D000066908:Simulation Training; D055815:Young Adult