Effect of Concept Mapped Blended Learning Self-Directed Learning on the Knowledge Level of Parenteral Drug Administration in Nursing Students: a Randomized Controlled Study

Online learning materials are of great importance in health education where theoretical knowledge and psychomotor skills are developed. The student takes responsibility for learning and has the chance to continue his education outside the classroom. Concept maps are one of the most effective educational materials both in classroom education and online learning. Visual education is concept map training in which each concept is included once on concrete applications and the relationships between concepts are revealed within the framework of the main lines to be taught. Providing parenteral drug administration training with a concept map will reveal the application steps as a concrete step and clear away confusing theoretical knowledge. The use of concept maps will ensure that first-year nursing students who are receiving training on drug administration for the first time will receive an education that is summative and memorable, away from the complex structure. One of the education models that offer interactive education opportunities other than traditional ones is blended learning. Blended learning provides a combination of face-to-face and technology-mediated teaching and learning that not only fully embodies the concept of "student-centered" teaching but also enables students to effectively participate in the classroom. The student-centered nature of blended learning also brings about self-directed learning. Self-directed learning is defined as the process of constantly monitoring and improving students' cognitive states, observing and applying various learning strategies, helping them recognize learning behaviors, and making efforts to create and use physical and social resources that facilitate learning.