Publication Details
Wilson, J. (2008). Bridge over the theory-practice divide. Teaching and Learning Forum 2008: Preparing for the graduate of 2015.
Abstract
This qualitative study was conducted to explore how the student midwife in the final stages of her Postgraduate Diploma of Midwifery Course perceived the theory practice gap. Much research has been published about the theory practice gap from the perspective of educators or employers but little is published on the view of the student who sits in the centre of this dilemma. This study was conducted by interviewing 5 student midwives with a set of open ended questions. The first of these questions sought to ascertain if indeed the student perceived such a gap existed. Further questions explored factors, if any, that widened or narrowed this gap. All interviews were tape-recorded, transcribed verbatim and analysed. From this study recommendations for practice were identified. Key words: Theory practice gap, hermeneutic analysis, evidence based practice.
Comments
The Abstracts of Proceedings of the Teaching and Learning Forum 2008: Preparing for the graduate of 2015 may be accessed here