Improving learning in hospital labour suites: an ethnographic approach to educational audit

A decision was taken that investigating the effectiveness of labour suites as learning environments for students is part of quality management rather than research. However, a traditional quality assurance model of audit was rejected in favour of an ethnographic approach because of the need to observe the culture of the setting as well as to understand teaching and learning from the perspectives of the teacher and the learner. Observation took place on six different labour suites over a 3-year period. Data were coded and analysed using a constant comparative approach. Three key needs emerged: to improve the learning culture in the practice environment; to address the differing effectiveness of practice mentors teaching and learning strategies; and to develop students personally and professionally. Further research is recommended into the role of those coordinating areas of high stress such as a hospital labour suite, because the cultural differences they create can cause barriers to learning.