Readiness for online learning and emotional intelligence of nursing students in a local university in NCR

ABSTRACT

@#Educators must be able to conscientiously assess their learners' readiness for online learning to achieve an effective and relevant delivery of education. Studies suggest that the extent of emotional intelligence contributes to the readiness for online learning of nursing students. Also, emotional intelligence can be a preventative factor in traversing the path to online learning during the global health crisis. The aim of the study is to assess nursing students' readiness for online learning and emotional intelligence. In addition, it seeks to identify the association between readiness in online learning and emotional intelligence. The study utilized a descriptive-quantitative survey method, including 174 nursing students from a selected local university offering nursing program in the National Capital Region. The data gathering was conducted during the 24th to 27th of March 2020 or during the 2nd week of Enhanced Community Quarantine (ECQ). The study adapted and modified the emotional intelligence scale by Hyde et al. (2002) and the Tool for Online Learning Success (TOOLS) by Kerr et al. (2006). The tools were pre-tested with reliability test results of 0.949 and 0.892, respectively, showing acceptable reliability. Then, data was gathered using an online gathering instrument and statistically analyzed using SPSS Version 24. The findings of the study suggest that nursing students are highly mindful of their academic skills (m=3.870) and independent learning (m=3.767). For the EI of the participants, based on the ten domains, the high scores are on emotional stability (m=4.929), self-development (m=4.989), and integrity (m=4.198). In addition, there was a significant relationship between emotional intelligence and readiness for online learning of nursing students, specifically on computer skills (r=0.318; p<0.001), academic knowledge (r=0.675; p<0.001), and independent learning (r=0.750; p<0.001). Assessing the emotional intelligence of nursing students and their readiness for online learning gives the academic institution an overview of the feelings, emotions, and capabilities of students. It creates a guide for any actions which involve the students.