Locus of control in nursing students on a problem-based learning program: A longitudinal examination

In this survey carried out over a 4-year period we explored the changes perceived in the locus of control (LOC) of 58 nursing students enrolled in a baccalaureate nursing education program with an integrated problem-based learning curriculum. The results suggested that there was a statistically significant difference in LOC between the first and second years. A significant difference was found in the mean scores of the students according to year in personal control, fatalism, and belief in an unfair world. But, when analyzed further, there were no significant differences according to year in personal control and belief in an unfair world. However, a statistically significant difference was found in fatalism between the first- and third-year students. Implications for nursing training programs and curriculum development are discussed.