3D technology a new pedagogical approach in midwifery education

Background: Difficulties are often experienced by students to achieve a conceptual understanding of 3D anatomy, and misconceptions about physiological phenomena are often hard to understand from reading a textbook alone. Key skills such as physiological involution of the uterus are impossible to recreate. The needs of students in the 21stcentury are changing, this has resulted in university departments developing innovative blended learning strategies to address their needs and deliver education that is pedagogically relevant. The evolution of technology with 3D applications have the potential to change how education is delivered(Frost et al., 2017).

Research: A 3D artefact was developed by the Visualisation Development Team at the University of the Sunshine Coast under the guidance of midwifery experts. This artefact introduces midwifery students to birth of a placenta and the physiological processes that simultaneously occur. An additional element was included by the introduction of a manikin which further enhanced their learning andskills in midwifery practice.

Evaluation: The artefact was piloted by students enrolled in the Bachelor of Midwifery program/course. Students responses and attitudes towards the use of this new technology were evaluated using an evaluation questionnaire, to establish their initial perspectives on the use of 3D within teaching. The evaluation asked open and closed questions and the responses were collated.

Results: Were overwhelmingly positive with 100% of students requesting more education using 3D technology as a pedagogy for teaching and learning in midwifery education.

Conclusion: This presentation will share the results of listening to the student’s voice and observed outcomes, when introducing new 3D technology into midwifery programs and provide academics with valuable insights about student learning needs when new technology is used.