Midwifery students first encounter with the maternity ward.

Considerable research has been made in order to find what promotes students' learning in general, but few studies have included midwifery students and their learning in clinical practice. The purpose of this study was to get a better understanding of the midwifery students' first encounter with the maternity ward and of what was essential to them in the learning environment. A qualitative study, based on in-depth interviews with six students during their first clinical practice at a maternity ward, was conducted. The findings show that the students needed to feel their presence desired and to be included in the activities in the ward. Learning needed to be based on the students' expectations, understanding and previous experiences. The most important factor influencing the students' well-being and learning was their relationships with their mentor. In conclusion, learning in a clinical setting required more than just motivated students. Engaged mentors, who linked the students' previous experiences and expectations to the clinical practice, were crucial to learning outcomes. Mutual engagement, shared understanding and common goals were imperative for the students' experiences of a good learning environment.