Maori midwifery student retention - beyond the numbers

Abstract or Summary

Wintec is based in the Waikato region and covers a large geographical area including Bay of Plenty, Lakes, East Coast and Hawkes Bay. These areas have a higher proportion of Maori ethnic population according to the 2006 Census (Statistics New Zealand, 2011). The increasing numbers of student enrolments reflect that Maori are entering into midwifery study and the success of these students is important to the future of Maori midwives. However the retention of this group is challenged. This study utilises face to face interviews to gain a deeper understanding of the factors that influence these challenges and impact on their success within the Bachelor of Midwifery programme. The attrition numbers provide one aspect of Maori academic progress. It is the thoughts and feelings of the students who make up these numbers that is important to understand why this group of students may or may not succeed. This presentation will describe the issues Wintec has faced with Maori students in the Bachelor of Midwifery programme