Midwifery in practice.
A first-of-its-kind ECU research publication will examine feminist theory as underpinning midwifery philosophy and midwifery models of care. Feminist thought as essential in challenging patriarchal norms, advocating for women's autonomy and advancing the midwifery profession.
This unique publication has been made possible by the Open Educational Resources (OER) Collective Grant, which awarded $2500 from the LEAP category to publish the open resource through the OER Collective.
The research is led by Post Doctoral Research Fellow Dr Kate Buchanan in the School of Nursing and Midwifery, alongside a team of seven other academic researchers from the School. The resource aims to investigate the diverse experiences of midwives and those they care for, and address the challenges faced by midwives in a predominantly gendered profession and for the first time observe these aspects through a feminist lens.
Challenges that prompted the Nursing and Midwifery Board (NMBA) to commission a national report on the state of midwifery in Australia. Given the 'crisis' level revelation and subsequent recommendations that have been prescribed by the report, ECU's research will help safeguard and support the profession for the future through a globally innovative approach.
"Midwifery has always been emancipatory in its approach - that is to help strengthen the capabilities of women so that they may claim their power through their childbearing experience," Dr Buchanan said.
Due to the open-source nature of this project, it will be accessible to people all over the world, creating progressive development opportunities and significant savings for students and midwives alike.
The textbook is currently in the early stages of its development, with completion expected in June 2026.
For further information regarding this research, please visit the OER Collective website.
