Student Attrition in the Ontario Midwifery Education Program: A Qualitative Analysis - 1. Personal Issues

Rhea Wilson, BA, BHSc, RM; Elena Neiterman, BA, PhD; and Derek K. Lobb, BSc, MSc, PhD

ABSTRACT 
This study identifies some of the factors associated with student withdrawal from the Ontario Midwifery Education Program (OMEP). An Internet-based survey was used to collect data and written comments. Participation was requested from senior-level students, graduates of the program, and students who withdrew prior to graduation. In this qualitative study, we found that commuting and relocation, support and guidance, and the stress of one-on-one preceptor mentorships are areas in which the OMEP could develop interventions to improve student retention.

KEYWORDS 
student retention, attrition, midwifery education

This article has been peer reviewed.