An integration of Benner’s theory to explore the learning styles and motivation as predictors of academic achievement among nursing students in Iraq

Abstract

Effective nursing education relies on understanding diverse student learning styles and motivational factors to enhance academic performance and prepare competent healthcare professionals. Despite the recognized importance, there has been limited research that has comprehensively explored these interactions in Iraq. The study aimed to investigate the learning styles among nursing students, assess their motivational levels, and examine the relationship between variables. A cross-sectional descriptive study was conducted from 1 December 2024 to 31 January 2025, involving 200 undergraduate nursing students at the College of Nursing, Ninevah University, Mosul, Iraq. The study integrates the Patricia Benner’s Novice to Expert Theory, as it had aligned more appropriately with study’s focus on nursing students’ motivation, experiential learning, and professional development. A structured questionnaire assessed demographic data, preferred learning styles (visual, auditory, kinesthetic), motivation types (intrinsic and extrinsic), and academic achievement. The tool's reliability and validity were confirmed by an expert panel review and a Cronbach’s alpha value of greater than 0.80. Statistical analyses included Pearson correlation, t-tests, ANOVA, and multiple regression. The study documented that visual learning was the predominant style (40%), followed by auditory (35%) and kinesthetic (25%). Intrinsic motivation was more prevalent (60%) compared to extrinsic motivation (40%). Pearson correlation analysis revealed significant positive associations between intrinsic motivation and academic achievement (r=0.68, p < 0.01) and kinesthetic learning and academic performance (r=0.45, p < 0.01). Regression analysis confirmed intrinsic motivation (β=0.52, p < 0.001) and kinesthetic learning style (β=0.31, p < 0.001) as significant predictors of academic performance. The findings highlight the importance of intrinsic motivation and kinesthetic learning strategies in nursing education. It is essential for nursing educators to use interactive and practical teaching methods to boost intrinsic motivation and optimize learning.

Keywords: Academic achievement, extrinsic motivation, intrinsic motivation, learning styles, nursing education