Undergraduate Students Experiences of Studying Nursing/Midwifery at NUI Galway Evelyn Byrne, Bróna Mooney, Frances Farrelly, Eimear Burke

Aim To explore undergraduates experiences of studying nursing/midwifery at NUI Galway. To obtain a comprehensive insight into students perceptions of undergraduate nursing education programmes. To use survey results to inform and influence future programme development.

Methodology Ethical approval obtained Descriptive quantitative design Postgraduate Taught Experience Survey (UK); developed by Higher Education Academy Survey ed to all 4 th year students (n=122) Data gathered and statistically analysed using on-line computer package ( Survey Methods )

Demographics Response rate 28.6% –31 complete –4 partial Programme –General (n=21) –Psychiatry (n=6) –Midwifery (n= 7)

Paid Employment Paid employment − Yes 74.29% (n=26) − No 25.71% (n=9) Hours worked per week

Results Main Motivations for Taking an Undergraduate Programme

Results Reasons for Studying Nursing/Midwifery at NUI Galway

Results Students Perceptions of Teaching and Learning on the Programme

Results Students Perceptions of Assessment and Feedback on the Programme

Results Students Perception of Literature Review and Supervisory Support

Results Students Perception of Programme Organisation and Management

Results Students Perceptions of Skills Gained on the Programme

Results Students Perception of Professional Development on the Programme

Results Qualitative Findings Regarding the Programme More simulations and drug round scenarios More time practicing clinical skills Short questions in exam; less MCQs More support for students on rostered placement Reduce specialist placement from 4 weeks to 2 weeks Rotate student placement between UHG & Portiuncula

Results Qualitative Findings Regarding the Programme contd.. “Very little consideration given to students with family commitments when it comes to clinical placements” “Midwifery programme is overwhelmingly focused on the medicalised model of obstetric care delivered by midwives but led and dominated by obstetricians” “Overall I loved the course and I will be forever grateful to the lecturers for their knowledge and help in allowing me to achieve my dream career” “I have greatly enjoyed my experience at NUIG and have found it a great place for learning”

Results Suggestions to Improve Students Experiences Shorter lectures More simulation and clinical skills sessions Prompt feedback on assignments Shorter specialist placements Rotate students between UHG and Portiuncula More subjects focused on mental health illnesses and medication

Conclusion Students experiences positively rated Address students preferences during curriculum review –Shorter lecturers –Timely and detailed feedback on assignments –Simulations throughout the programmes Rotation of clinical placement between UHG and Portiuncula implemented in 2012