Relationship Between Perception of Constructivism Learning-based Approaches and Self-actualization in Nursing Students

Background: For successful clinical education in a suitable environment and condition, nursing students can be assisted in acquiring the necessary knowledge and skills.Objectives: The present study investigated the relationship between the understanding of the learning environment based on constructivism and self-actualization in Kerman University of Medical Sciences nursing students in 2021.Methods: This cross-sectional study utilized a descriptive-analytical method. The study subjects consisted of 160 undergraduate nursing students selected by the census. The information was collected using a demographic profile questionnaire, social constructivist learning environment perception questionnaire, and Ahvaz Self-Actualization Inventory (ASAI). The data were analyzed using Pearson correlation, linear regression, and chi-square tests in SPSS software.Results: The mean score of understanding the environment based on constructivism and its dimensions was reported as 191.88 ± 30.50, and that of self-actualization was 81.23 ± 12.99. There was a significant positive relationship between understanding the environment based on self-actualization and constructivism and also between all dimensions of understanding the environment based on constructivism and self-actualization (P 0.050).Conclusion: The total score of the constructivist-based learning environment predicted self-actualization in nursing students. Self-actualization may change with a change in the dimensions of this approach. The constructivist approach can improve the self-actualization of nursing students, promote their active participation in building knowledge, and increase their interactions, enhancing abilities, talents, and self-actualization. The constructivist learning environment can lead to the growth and development of nursing students in educational environments and increase their interest in academic achievements in education, research, and employment.