The DOC Learning Tool
The Participatory Action Research study involved three phases, Exploration (Phase One), Intervention (Phase Two) and Evaluation (Phase Three). Phase One involved a World Café event where an Expert Working Group (n=19) created the DOC Learning Tool based on the NMC Standards. One hundred percent face and content validity of the Tool was achieved. Phase Two involved mixed methods of data collection: Testing the DOC Learning Tool over four cycles .24 clinical midwives from one Health Board in Scotland took part. In total 224 DOC Learning Tools were completed and analysed. Quantitative data was examined through descriptive statistics, revealing that over the four test cycles rater agreement changed from a mean of 68.10, to 78.17. Descriptive statistics revealed a reduced range in the variation of scores and a steadily increased mean score.
Results showed gradual increase while Cycle Four becomes significantly different from Cycle One. One inferential test was carried out ( one-way ANOVA) which revealed significant difference between Cycle One and Cycle Four. Qualitative data was obtained through three focus groups (n=9) and qualitative comments from the completed DOC Learning Tools. Thematic analysis (Braun and Clarke (2006) revealed two overarching themes relating to the DOC Learning Tool, including Mechanisms and Practicalities and Person Centred Engagement and Enhancement through Learning. There was clear evidence the DOC Learning Tool was in alignment with the NMC professional standards. Phase Three- Although triangulation of findings enhanced the areas of convergence and divergent resulting in ongoing improvements to the DOC Learning Tool over the study.
