Impact of COVID-19 on midwifery students in Italy: A national survey
Martina Lupica Spagnolo, Agata Zirilli, Tania Formica, Giuliana Spidaleri, Pietro Impellizzeri, Calogero Russo, Edward Araujo Júnior, Gustavo Yano Callado, Roberta Granese, Angela AlibrandiAbstract
Background:
The aim was to analyze the university study approach and motivation of midwifery students in Italy after the COVID-19 pandemic.
Methods:
We conducted a national survey targeting midwifery students in Italy from January to June 2024 and yielded 369 valid responses. A validated online questionnaire was sent through email to the coordinators of Obstetrics Study Courses across Italy, who then forwarded it to regularly enrolled students. In addition, it was distributed to professional midwifery boards across the country for circulation among practicing professionals. Responses with comparisons made across geographical regions and age groups. The Pearson chi-squared test was used to determine statistical significance.
Results:
COVID-19 had a substantial impact on both academic and clinical learning in health care. Remote lessons limited the acquisition of practical competencies. Psychological distress was more prevalent in Southern Italy. Self-esteem was inversely associated with perceived academic penalization; students with lower self-esteem reported a higher perception of being disadvantaged.
Conclusion:
COVID-19 significantly altered educational dynamics. Although technology facilitated the continuity of theoretical learning, midwifery students faced major setbacks due to the irreplaceable need for clinical practice and real patient interaction. Future educational strategies must address these gaps through blended learning models, increased psychological support, and simulation-based training.