Using digital technology to widen access to international experiences: International Student Midwives Network.

Velo Higueras, Maria; Graf Heule, Petra; Miscioscia, Emily; Ammann-Fiechter, Silvia

Abstract

Embedding international learning experiences into midwifery curriculums can help students gain global intercultural perspectives. This can prepare them to become global advocates and leaders, who will address the wide variations in midwifery education and competences across the globe. Attempts to internationalise undergraduate midwifery education have been made previously via clinical placements or educational trips abroad. However, these initiatives present challenges in terms of accessibility and sustainability; they are also vulnerable to political, environmental and global health changes. At the start of 2020, lecturers at Robert Gordon University in Aberdeen and Zurich University of Applied Sciences joined forces to design an innovative solution, which would provide wider and more sustainable access to rich intercultural experiences for undergraduate midwifery students. Using digital technologies, the International Student Midwives Network (ISMN) is a virtual network that offers students the opportunity to build peer support relationships with other students in different countries. In student-led groups, participants shared experiences of their student journey, and reflected on similarities and differences in the social context of midwifery, while also developing cross-cultural interpersonal and communication skills. At the end of the academic year, they then worked together to organise a student-led virtual conference, which gave them the opportunity to share their learning with the wider student populations at the participating institutions. A total of 80 students participated in the first cohort in 2020-2021, with very positive results in the pilot evaluation. Students reported improved understanding of the international role of the midwife, enhanced interpersonal communication skills, empowerment to work cross-culturally and increased belongingness to the global midwifery profession. The success of this pilot cohort has led to the ISMN expanding during 2021-2022, incorporating additional partner institutions. A formal research project is currently under development to formally evaluate the impact and outcomes of this initiative.

Citation

VELO HIGUERAS, M., GRAF HEULE, P., MISCIOSCIA, E. and AMMANN-FIECHTER, S. 2022. Using digital technology to widen access to international experiences: International Student Midwives Network. Presented at the 2022 Education and research conference: ensuring every voice is heard: promoting inclusivity in education, research and midwifery care, 23-24 March 2022, Coventry, UK.

• Presentation Conference Type: Poster
• Conference Name: 2022 Education and research conference: ensuring every voice is heard: promoting inclusivity in education, research and midwifery care
• Start Date: Mar 23, 2022
• End Date: Mar 24, 2022
• Deposit Date: Jul 25, 2022
• Publicly Available Date: Nov 23, 2022
• Peer Reviewed: Peer Reviewed
• Keywords: Midwifery education; Midwifery students; Multiculturalism; Cultural interactions; Student peer support networks
• Public URL: https://rgu-repository.worktribe.com/output/1602956
• Publisher URL: https://web.archive.org/web/20230612141841/https://vimeo.com/645236234/7ba4600d11
• Additional Information: A video presentation is available at https://vimeo.com/645236234/7ba4600d11.