Student-led midwifery clinics as an innovative practice placement model: A mixed method evaluation

Area of Science:

• Midwifery Education
• Clinical Practice Environments
• Student Learning Outcomes

Background:

• Limited midwifery placements and high student attrition rates hinder the increase of midwifery graduates.
• Ensuring high-quality, positive midwifery practice experiences is crucial for student retention and preparedness.

Purpose of the Study:

• To explore pre-registration midwifery students' experiences in a university-facilitated student-led midwifery clinic.
• To compare these experiences with those of students in traditional midwifery placement models.

Main Methods:

• A mixed-method descriptive design was employed, including a cross-sectional survey and a focus group.
• 146 midwifery students completed the Clinical Practice Environment scale of the Midwifery Students' Experience of Practice tool (MidSTEP).
• Data were compared between students in student-led clinics (n=14) and traditional placements (n=68), with a focus group conducted with seven students from the student-led clinic.

Main Results:

• Students in the student-led midwifery clinic rated 15 of 16 MidSTEP items significantly higher than those in traditional placements.
• Thematic analysis identified four key themes: enhanced continuity relationships, a safe space, alignment with midwifery philosophy, and taking the lead.
• Student-led clinics fostered a supportive learning environment aligned with core midwifery values.

Conclusions:

• Student-led midwifery clinics can optimize learning and increase placement opportunities.
• These clinics enhance student confidence and preparedness for midwifery practice.
• Supervision by an Endorsed midwife in these settings allows students to experience the full scope of midwifery practice.