Affiliation:
1. Associate professor, head of discipline (midwifery), The University of Notre Dame Australia
2. Associate dean, Stanley College, Perth, Western Australia
3. Senior lecturer and researcher, The University of Notre Dame Australia
Abstract
Background/Aims The COVID-19 pandemic significantly affected teaching for nursing and midwifery academics, as it shifted from face-to-face to online teaching from home. However, their experiences and how this impacted their ability to fulfil their academic roles has not been reported. This study investigated midwifery and nursing academics' working from home experiences during the COVID-19 pandemic and how this has impacted their ability to fulfil their academic roles. Methods A qualitative approach was used for this study, analysing demographics and the answers to open-ended questions from 91 midwifery and nursing academics. Results Six themes were derived: isolation, loneliness, work rituals, productivity, blurred boundaries and health and wellbeing. Generally, participants reported that they were more organised, focused and efficient, which gave them more time to spend with their families and pets. Most thought that they were more productive at home. However, the working environments for some participants were not ideal, as they were working in their kitchen or dining area, or in ‘make-do’ offices. Conclusions The COVID-19 pandemic posed new working challenges for academics, many of whom had worked from home for a few days, but then needed to work from home for extended periods because of lockdowns. Academics reported an overall positive outlook for working from home, as it enabled more family time and more productivity.