Reimagining relationality as the focus of midwifery education: A qualitative study

Aim: To explore what midwifery academics and midwifery clinicians understand as the learning goals of the Continuity of care experiences (CoCE) in the Bachelor of Midwifery program. 

Background: Continuity of care experiences are a component of all midwifery programs in Australia with the aim to facilitate an understanding of how relationship-based care is foundational to learning the art and science of midwifery. However, challenges persist in embedding meaningful CoCE, in part because learning goals have not been consistent. 

Design: A qualitative descriptive approach was used in this study. The study took place in a regional/rural Australian setting. 

Method: Twenty- six midwifery academics and clinicians supporting undergraduate midwifery students participated in a semi structured interview. Reflexive thematic analysis was used to analyse the data set. 

Results: The overarching theme ‘Learning the craft of midwifery’, had five subthemes: Building trusting relationships; Experiencing the science of relationships; Navigating the boundaries; Deep reflections: a missed opportunity and Shaping the future. Continuity of care experiences exposed students to the neurophysiological foundations of relationships. 

Conclusion: This paper identifies the perceived educational intent of CoCE is to provide an opportunity for technical skill development in addition to learning how to establish supportive, authentic relationships with women. Clear identification of the learning expectations of CoCE and clarification around the value placed on midwifery philosophy should be developed.