Investigation of midwifery students' opinions on the digital storytelling method in midwifery education and assessment of their digital stories

In today's digitalized world the use of innovative technologies in education systems is very important. In midwifery education, where learning by researching, applying, and experiencing is important, research on the effects of digital storytelling, which involves the use of innovative technology, is limited. The aim of this study was to investigate midwifery students' views on the digital storytelling method in midwifery education and to assess the digital stories they produced. This is a qualitative descriptive study. The research was conducted with senior students of the midwifery department of a state university. A total of 26 students participated in in-depth, semi-structured interviews. Interview data were evaluated using content analysis and the Digital Storytelling Evaluation Scale was used to evaluate the digital stories produced by the students. Students' opinions about the digital storytelling method in midwifery education reflected three main themes: “benefits of the digital storytelling method,” “difficulties in preparing digital stories,” and “the place of digital storytelling technique in midwifery education.” At commencement, students did not think that the digital storytelling method would have an effect, but they found this method quite effective. The digital stories prepared by the students were evaluated by the researchers between 28 and 36 points and it was determined that the content of the digital stories was sufficient. Students reported that the digital storytelling method was very effective, encouraged creativity and supported learning through fun activities. However, they also stated that this method was time-consuming and they had difficulties. It is recommended that the use of this innovative teaching method in midwifery education should be expanded and its effect should be evaluated. •Digital storytelling encourages students to participate in the learning process.•Students stated that digital storytelling is a time-consuming but effective method.•Digital storytelling should become widespread in midwifery education.