Table 1.
Definition of terminology used for this study
| Term | Definition | Conceptual characteristics |
|---|---|---|
| Behaviour* | Observable conduct towards other people or activities that expresses a competency. Behaviours are durable, trainable and measurable | Observable attribute, often applied in combination, i.e. several behaviours may contribute towards one competency |
| Competency* | The observable ability of a person, integrating knowledge, skills, and attitudes in their performance of tasks. Competencies are durable, trainable and, through the expression of behaviours, measurable |
Not time limited, i.e. durable through multiple activities Can develop/improve or erode over time |
| In-service training | Training that is given to employees during the course of their employment to update their professional knowledge, skills and competence | |
| Knowledge* | Understanding of, or information about a subject. The informational base of competence and skills | An unobservable attribute of competence inferred through performance or determined through testing |
| Midwifery care providers | Providers of midwifery care are competent maternal and newborn health professionals educated, trained and regulated to national and/or international standards. They provide skilled, evidence-based and compassionate care to women, newborns and families. Providers of midwifery care: | |
| Promote and facilitate normal physiological, social and cultural processes throughout the childbearing continuum with a continuity of care philosophy | ||
| Seek to prevent and manage maternal and newborn complications | ||
| Consult and refer to other health services where required | ||
| Respect women’s individual circumstances and views, providing sensitive and dignified care | ||
| Pre-service training | A formal learning programme which takes place prior to and as a prequisite for employment in a service setting | |
| Skill* | A specific cognitive or motor ability that is typically developed through training and practice | Observable (physical) and unobservable (cognitive) attribute, often applied in combination, i.e. several skills may contribute towards one competency and/or activity |
*Source: Mills JA, Middleton JW, Schafer A, Fitzpatrick S, Short S, Cieza A. Proposing a re-conceptualisation of competency framework terminology for health: a scoping review. Hum Resour Health. 2020 Feb 21;18(1):15