Context / probleemstelling of aanleiding
Probleemstelling (inclusief theoretische onderbouwing en onderzoeksvraag/vragen):
The development of self-regulated learning(SRL) processes is crucial for medical students to adapt to complex clinical settings.Traditionally,SRL instruments are designed for classroom environments,which do not adequately capture SRL processes in less structured environments such as the clinical workplace1.Despite the recognized importance of SRL,validated self-report instruments that reliably measure SRL processes in these environments are lacking.Therefore, this study investigates the psychometric properties of the SRL at Work Questionnaire (SRLW-Q).
Methode:
The SRLW-Q is a validated questionnaire to measure SRL in the workplace,riginating from the finance industry. It has been adapted for use in clerkships across different studies,and we obtained data from one such study as part of our analysis2.The SRLW-Q consists of two parts: an SRL-scale(42 items) and a workplace learning context(WLC) scale(6 items).The SRL-scale incorporates items from five questionnaires and is divided into three factors:Forethought, Performance,and Self-reflection.The WLC-scale is a pre-existing scale that measures perceived learning opportunities.Each item is scored on a 5-point Likert scale.
A principal components analysis(PCA) with previously published data(N=403)2 was conducted,and Cronbach’s alpha was calculated for reliability. Subsequently, a confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) was performed with newly collected data from Erasmus MC for both scales(N=475).The following fit indices were utilized:Comparative Fit Index(CFI), Tucker-Lewis Index(TLI),Root Mean Square Error of Approximation(RMSEA), and χ²(df) significance, along with McDonald’s omega as a reliability measure.
Resultaten (en conclusie):
For the SRL scale, the necessary sampling adequacy assumption of PCA was met with a Kaiser-Meyer-Olkin (KMO) value of 0.87, and Bartlett’s Test of Sphericity was significant (p<0.001). PCA demonstrated a four-factor structure of 31 items, explaining 38.5% of the variance, with factor coefficients ranging from 0.38 to 0.76. Cronbach’s alpha values across factors ranged from 0.64 to 0.81. CFA revealed that the baseline model demonstrated poor fit index values. After one item error correlation was added, five items were deleted, and a second-order factor was added, the model achieved a satisfactory fit (CFI=0.963; TLI=0.959; RMSEA=0.039; X2(294)=490.996, p<0.001). McDonald’s omega ranged from 0.73 to 0.80 across factors, and 0.68 for the second-order factor.
For the WLC-scale, the KMO value was 0.75 and Bartlett’s Test of Sphericity was significant (p<0.001), confirming the assumption of PCA. This demonstrated a unidimensional structure of six items, explaining 40% of the variance, while factor coefficients ranged from 0.46 to 0.72. Cronbach’s alpha was 0.69. CFA initially showed poor fit index values for the baseline model. After adding the correlation between two items’ errors, the model achieved an acceptable fit (CFI=0.988; TLI=0.975; RMSEA=0.041; X2(7)=12.300, p<0.001). McDonald’s omega was 0.65.
Discussie (beschouwing resultaten en conclusie in het kader van de theorie):
The adapted version of the SRLW-Q proved to be a reliable tool for assessing SRL in clinical workplaces.It consists of 26 items organized into a four-factor structure,aligned with Zimmerman’s SRL model (Self-reflection,Task Analysis, Self-control,and Self-motivation Beliefs),along with an additional second-order factor to measure SRL as a total construct. These findings are significant for evaluating SRL processes at a granular level,providing valuable insights for educators to identify medical students who may excel in one phase while struggling in another.Such understanding facilitates targeted interventions that address specific learning needs and aids in the development of self-regulated physicians capable of delivering flexible and effective healthcare.
Given that SRL is complex and multidimensional,employing various measurement approaches is important.The availability of a validated questionnaire marks a pivotal step in improving the assessment of SRL processes in clinical workplaces.Its feasibility for large-scale implementation encourages broad participation,allowing institutions to quickly identify areas for improvement and enhance the learning experience.
Referenties:
van Houten-Schat MA,Berkhout JJ,van Dijk N,Endedijk MD,Jaarsma ADC,Diemers AD.Self-regulated learning in the clinical context:a systematic review.Medical Education.2018;52(10):1008-15.
Bransen D,Govaerts MJB,Sluijsmans DMA,Donkers J,Van den Bossche PGC,Driessen EW.Relationships between medical students’ co-regulatory network characteristics and self-regulated learning:a social network study. Perspect Med Educ. 2022;11(1):28-35.
