Fostering Self-Efficacy among Filipino Nursing Students Post-Pandemic: Effectiveness of Dedicated Education Units

Abstract

The COVID-19 pandemic has posed unprecedented challenges to nursing education in the Philippines, prompting the exploration of innovative strategies to support students' self-efficacy. This study investigates the implementation of the Dedicated Education Unit (DEU) model in Filipino nursing education post-pandemic. Drawing from international research and theoretical frameworks such as Bandura's Social Cognitive Theory, the study explores the potential benefits of DEUs in enhancing students' self-efficacy. A pre-test, post-test experimental design was employed to evaluate the impact of DEU implementation on nursing students' self-efficacy levels. Statistical analyses reveal a significant increase in students' self-efficacy post-intervention (p-value=0.003), indicating the efficacy of the DEU model in fostering students' confidence and belief in their clinical abilities. The average score before the intervention was 2.81, while after the intervention, it increased to 3.67. Discussion highlights the positive outcomes associated with DEUs, including improvements in student self-efficacy, critical thinking, and successful transition to professional practice. The study concludes with implications for future research and practice, emphasizing the importance of continued exploration and adaptation of innovative clinical education models to meet the evolving needs of nursing students and healthcare systems.