Level of Self-Directed Learning and Associated Factors among Undergraduates in the Faculty of Allied Health Sciences, University of Sri Jayewardenepura: A Cross-Sectional Study

Background: Self-Directed Learning (SDL) is a fundamental educational approach in higher education, particularly in healthcare, where it fosters continuous learning and professional growth. There is a paucity of data regarding SDL among Allied Health undergraduates in the Sri Lankan state university context.  Hence, this study aimed to evaluate SDL levels and associated demographic and academic factors among undergraduates in the Faculty of Allied Health Sciences (FAHS), University of Sri Jayewardenepura (USJ).  
Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted among 341 Allied Health undergraduates using a census sampling method at FAHS, USJ, each with at least one year of academic experience. A pre-tested self-administered Self-Rating Scale of Self-Directed Learning (SRSSDL) was used with the author's permission for data collection. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, and Chi-square tests were performed to determine associations between SDL levels and demographic or academic variables. Ethical clearance was obtained from the Research Ethics Committee, Faculty of Medical Sciences, USJ.  
Results: The study included 341 undergraduates from the second, third, and fourth years of the B. Pharm (n=107), BSc Nursing (n=91), BSc Medical Laboratory Sciences (n=106), and BSc Optometry (n=37) programmes, aged 21 to 30 years. The majority (58.4%) exhibited a high level of SDL, with a mean SDL score of 225.9 out of 300. No statistically significant associations were found between SDL and age, gender, academic year, or degree programme. However, fourth-year undergraduates demonstrated slightly higher mean SDL scores compared to second- and third-year undergraduates.  
Conclusions: While most undergraduates exhibited high SDL levels, no significant demographic or academic associated factors were identified. Future research should investigate the potential impact of SDL development on academic performance.