The impact of three-dimensional visualisation on midwifery students’ application of knowledge of the third stage of labour to practice: Qualitative findings of a pilot randomised controlled trial

Problem

Complex physiological processes are often difficult for midwifery students to comprehend when using traditional teaching and learning approaches. Online resources for midwifery education are limited.

Background

Face to face instructional workshops using simulation have had some impact on improving understanding. However, in the 21st century new technologies offer the opportunity to provide alternative learning approaches. Virtual and artificial realities have been shown to increase confidence in decision making during clinical practice.

Aim

Explore the impact of using three-dimensional (3D) visualisation in midwifery education, on student’s application, when educating women about the birth of the placenta, and membranes.

Methods

Face to face individual interviews were performed, to collect deep, meaningful experiences of students, learning about the third stage of labour.

Findings

Prior clinical experiences impacted on student’s ability to articulate how they would discuss birth of the placenta and membranes, and the process of haemostasis with women.

Discussion

The narrative findings of this pilot study identified ways that students traditionally learn midwifery, through theory, and clinical practice. Interview narratives illustrated how midwifery students who had previous experiences of witnessing birth, had superior ability to discuss the third stage of labour with women. While students with limited birth experiences, found the 3DMVR assisted them in their understanding of the physiology of the third stage of labour.

Conclusion

In an environment of increasing technological advances, clinical placements remain an essential component of midwifery education.