Abstract: Objective To investigate the correlation between self-directed learning ability and class psychological atmosphere of nursing students in higher vocational college.Methods A questionnaire survey was conducted among 177 nursing students in higher vocational college by using the Chinese version of Self-directed Learning Ability Assessment Scale and the Class Psychological Atmosphere Assessment Scale for College Students.Results The total score of self-learning orientation ability of nursing students was（207.94±36.91）. The total score of class psychological atmosphere was（155.18±30.44）. There was a positive correlation between self-directed learning ability and class psychological atmosphere （r=0.363,P<0.01）.Conclusion The self-directed learning ability and class psychological atmosphere of nursing specialty in higher vocational college are at the middle level. The better the class psychological atmosphere student perceived,the stronger the self-directed learning ability they have.

Key words: Education, Nursing, Questionnaires, Self-directed learning, Psychological atmosphere