Background & Objectives: Self-directed learning (SDL) is regarded as the main tool which is an integral part of a student-centered medical curriculum. It is the degree to which a student acquires the ability, attitude, and personal characteristics required for self-directed learning. The objective of the present study was to explore the readiness for Self-Directed Learning (SDL) among first-year MBBS students enrolled at Government medical college, Srikakulam. Methods: 150 first-year MBBS students were recruited to participate in this study. Among 150 students, 126 students participated in the study. Data was collected using Fischers 40-item Self-Directed Learning Readiness Scale (SDLRS). The student’s response to each item of the Self-Directed Learning Readiness Scale was obtained on a 5-point Likert scale. Using SPSS 25, the data were analyzed. The Self-Directed Learning readiness was categorized as high (>150 scores) and low (<150 scores). Results: The mean SDLRS score was 140.87±12.43 with 41 (33%) students scoring more than 150 indicating high readiness. The mean scores of self-controls (SC), self-management (SM), and desire for learning (DL) were 52.30±5.66, 46.03± 6.05, and 42.53± 5.72 respectively. The mean score for self-control was the highest of all the three components of the SDLRS followed by self-management, while the least mean score was for a desire for learning. Conclusion: The present study revealed that the overall SDL readiness of participants was not up to the mark. Students had the ability for self-control and were motivated to self-management skills. However, they need guidance, and motivation to improve their self-learning skills.

Background & Objectives: Self-directed learning (SDL) is regarded as the main tool which is an integral part of a student-centered medical curriculum. It is the degree to which a student acquires the ability, attitude, and personal characteristics required for self-directed learning. The objective of the present study was to explore the readiness for Self-Directed Learning (SDL) among first-year MBBS students enrolled at Government medical college, Srikakulam. Methods: 150 first-year MBBS students were recruited to participate in this study. Among 150 students, 126 students participated in the study. Data was collected using Fischers 40-item Self-Directed Learning Readiness Scale (SDLRS). The student’s response to each item of the Self-Directed Learning Readiness Scale was obtained on a 5-point Likert scale. Using SPSS 25, the data were analyzed. The Self-Directed Learning readiness was categorized as high (>150 scores) and low (<150 scores). Results: The mean SDLRS score was 140.87±12.43 with 41 (33%) students scoring more than 150 indicating high readiness. The mean scores of self-controls (SC), self-management (SM), and desire for learning (DL) were 52.30±5.66, 46.03± 6.05, and 42.53± 5.72 respectively. The mean score for self-control was the highest of all the three components of the SDLRS followed by self-management, while the least mean score was for a desire for learning. Conclusion: The present study revealed that the overall SDL readiness of participants was not up to the mark. Students had the ability for self-control and were motivated to self-management skills. However, they need guidance, and motivation to improve their self-learning skills.