Evaluation of the Midwifery Student Evaluation of Practice (MidSTEP) tool using Rasch analysis

Problem: Quantitative feedback from students about their clinical learning experiences is used to inform program quality, but the extent to which tools are reliable, valid and refined receives less attention. Aim: To evaluate the psychometric properties of the Midwifery Student Evaluation of Practice (MidSTEP) tool using Rasch analysis. Methods: The Midwifery Student Evaluation of Practice tool was completed by Bachelor of Midwifery students (n = 901) attending seven universities in Australia and New Zealand. The tool consists of the Clinical Learning Environment Scale (16 items) and Impact of the Midwifery Preceptor Scale (10 items), each with two subscales. Rasch analysis was conducted on all subscales separately using the partial credit model of RUMM2030. Response format, item fit, dimensionality of the scale and its targeting were assessed. Results: Rasch analysis confirmed the internal construct validity of the Clinical Learning Environment and Impact of the Midwifery Preceptor subscales, with no evidence of mis-fitting items, local dependency or multidimensionality. The 4-point response scale was found to be appropriate, and internal consistency reliability of each subscale was good. Discussion: Results provide support for the reliability and validity of the Midwifery Student Evaluation of Practice tool. The four subscales can confidently be used in undergraduate midwifery clinical education. The use of Rasch analysis is consistent with growing awareness in health and education of the need to apply more advanced, sophisticated psychometric techniques to ensure measures are suitable for their intended use. Tweetable abstract: Midwifery students clinical learning experiences should be measured using robust tools. MidSTEP is reliable and valid.