Effects of Online Classes during the COVID-19 Pandemic on Self-Directed Learning in Dental Hygiene Students

Objectives: This study aimed to investigate the importance of self-directed learning in dental hygiene students undergoing online education during the COVID-19 pandemic and identify factors affecting self-directed learning, thereby preparing basic data to improve dental hygiene students’ competency. Methods: Convenience sampling method was used to collect data from 215 dental hygiene students in the Daejeon and Chungcheong regions from April 1-30, 2021, and a self-administered questionnaire was used. Results: In dental hygiene students, self-directed learning, self-efficacy, and class satisfaction scores were 3.30, 3.32, and 3.15 points, respectively. Self-directed learning was positively correlated with self-efficacy and class satisfaction. Self-efficacy and class satisfaction had significant effects on self-directed learning with an explanatory power of 77.9%. Conclusions: Therefore, self-efficacy had the greatest effects on self-directed learning in dental hygiene students. Institutional support and efforts must be provided to improve self-efficacy and class satisfaction.