Exploring a pedagogical approach to integrating research, practice and teaching.

Area of Science:

• Nursing Education
• Midwifery Research
• Clinical Practice Integration

Background:

• Evidence-based practice is crucial in healthcare.
• Teaching research methods to undergraduate students presents international challenges, especially for nurse educators.
• Integrating research into undergraduate curricula requires effective pedagogical strategies.

Purpose of the Study:

• To describe a strategy for enhancing research learning among undergraduate midwifery students.
• To evaluate the effectiveness of a hands-on research learning approach within a larger international study.
• To identify challenges and benefits associated with teaching research to midwifery students.

Main Methods:

• Undergraduate midwifery students received theory classes and briefings.
• Students conducted interviews with women using established tools under clinical educator guidance.
• Students participated in qualitative data analysis.

Main Results:

• The implemented teaching strategy successfully enhanced students' learning about midwifery research.
• Both students and clinical educators encountered challenges during the research learning process.
• The approach made research more tangible for students, fostering practical skills.

Conclusions:

• Developing pedagogical approaches that make research tangible is essential for student learning.
• Adequate support for clinical staff involved in teaching research is vital for the success of such initiatives.
• This strategy offers a model for improving research education in undergraduate midwifery programs.