Role of Doulas as Community Based Outreach Workers for Childbearing

Objectives: This project is being conducted in a service learning model where students would be involved in both the training of program participants as well as evaluating the outcomes of the program.  This project is grant supported and matches pregnant women who are at social or medical risk with community outreach workers who are Doulas.  The Doulas provide education and support during pregnancy, childbirth and then into the post-partum period to assist the mother in transitioning to her role as a parent.  The focus is on supporting and empowering the woman by offering social, emotional and educational support.  Several studies have demonstrated positive social and medical outcomes when Doulas provide support.  This project is evaluating a continuous care model with community based doulas and will use both qualitative and quantitative research methods.  

 

Student Tasks and Responsibilities:  Students will participate in literature searches and reviews, data collection and entry and participation in interviews or focus groups depending on their interest level and skills.  The students would be involved in project meetings with the staff and would interact with both the Doulas and potentially clients during the data collection process.  In addition the student would have the opportunity to participate in the educational trainings that are provided to the Doulas and would function as staff support while also having access to the information related to pregnancy, childbirth and newborn care.  The primary focus for most of the onsite hours would be data entry of the evaluation forms completed by participants in the program.