Factors Influencing the Academic Performance of First Year Nursing Students

Abstract

The performance of nursing students in the University and licensure examinations remains a focus for educators and students. Thus, it is important to determine the factors influencing the academic performance of nursing students. This study utilized the descriptive quantitative comparative and correlational design. A researcher-made questionnaire was used to gather data on academic performance based on the student’s grades. The participants comprised 30 first-year nursing students currently enrolled in the first semester of the school year 2019- 2020. Results revealed a moderate level of academic performance as a whole and varying levels according to the variables. There was no significant difference in the academic performance of the nursing students when they were grouped according to sex, school of origin, amount of sleep, attendance, and study habits. There are no significant relationships between academic performance and sex, school of origin, attendance, and study habits. However, there is a significant relationship between academic performance and sleep. Therefore, it is concluded that sleep is an important factor in good academic performance. The findings of this study support Albert Bandura’s Self-Efficacy Theory, which further clarifies the capabilities of everyone with their strengths in mind.