Introduction: Professional identity can be defined as identification with the values of the profession and a commitment to competent and legitimate professional practice. Its development begins during studies and continues to evolve throughout an individual's career. Different perspectives on professional identity raise important questions about how to create professional identity in the context of curriculum design. It is the task of educational institutions to be creative and critical in shaping students' professional awareness. Purpose: The purpose and aim of this thesis is to identify the professional identity of third year students and graduate midwifery students at University of Ljubljana. Based on theoretical and empirical findings, the aim is to identify the key elements of professional identity of midwifery students. Methods: In the first part of the thesis, a descriptive method of empirical research was used. In the second part of the thesis, the research, we used the descriptive non-experimental method of empirical research. The research approach was based on a quantitative survey, using validated questionnaires for which we obtained permissions for use from the authors. Results: In this diploma thesis, we used the PISNS, PIFFFS and NPVS-3 scales to determine the professional identity of third year and graduate midwifery students in the academic year 2021/2022. On a positive note, the majority (85.1 %) of students do not intend to change their professional orientation after completing their studies. Similarly, 88.9 % are proud to be working in midwifery. Surprisingly, only 66.6 % of the students are sure about the type of work they will do after graduation. Discussion and conclusion: The development of a professional identity is considered to be one of the essential elements in the transition from a student to a professional. Therefore, the Faculty must ensure that students are adequately prepared for their future work. The question is to what extent and in what form a professional identity can be formed during studies and to what extent midwifery students can develop the qualifying qualities that direct practice requires. These are qualities that are difficult to develop during studies and are conditioned by intensive processes of professional socialisation.
|