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Drury, Colleen A. (2012) An exploration of the influences of supervisors of midwives in the context of the lifelong learning (continuing professional development) of practising midwives. EdD thesis, University of Nottingham.

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Abstract

This study aimed to explore the influences of Supervisors of Midwives in the context of Lifelong Learning (continuing professional development) (CPO) of practising midwives.

This study was designed using a mixed method approach incorporating both qualitative and quantitative approaches to data collection to enable validation of results and to gain a variety of information to illuminate the experiences of participants in this area of study. Questionnaires and focus groups were utilised in order to obtain the data.

The participants in this study comprised:

• the total population of midwives and Supervisors of Midwives in three NHS Trusts

• the total population of LSA Midwifery Officers in England

• the total population of Lead Midwives for Education in England.

This study has provided a variety of evidence specifically on the developmental role of the Supervisor of Midwives which has not been explored previously. There is an increasing emphasis on informal learning to meet CPO and these need to be given a higher priority for achievement within the work environment and supervisory framework. Collaboration between supervisors, managers and educationalists requires review to ensure midwives are afforded the opportunities to meet their needs. The process of education contracting between NHS service providers and education providers is not understood by supervisors unless they hold the dual role of manager and this needs addressing if midwives are to have equal opportunity In accessing resources. The dual role of manager and supervisor also needs further research as an emergence of the 'policing' role has been raised by some midwives in this study.

Conclusions - Supervisors of Midwives are in a unique position to influence midwives CPO but the lack of a coherent approach with managers and educationalists prevents this being effective. Supervisors of Midwives need to have more influence in enabling midwives to access the available resources to achieve their CPO needs. Informal learning opportunities need to be valued and developed to facilitate midwives lifelong learning to improve practice and good outcomes for women and their families.

Item Type:	Thesis (University of Nottingham only) (EdD)
Supervisors:	McGrath, S.
Subjects:	R Medicine > RT Nursing
Faculties/Schools:	UK Campuses > Faculty of Social Sciences, Law and Education > School of Education
Item ID:	14320
Depositing User:	EP, Services
Date Deposited:	13 Jun 2014 12:33
Last Modified:	17 Dec 2017 14:11
URI:	https://eprints.nottingham.ac.uk/id/eprint/14320

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