ABSTRACT
One of the most important barriers for using IUD [Intra Uterine Device] is inadequate provision of appropriate counseling. Since, employing new training methods is necessary for enhancing midwives' roles in providing appropriate counseling, this study was performed to compare the effect of two methods of traditional training and role playing on students' skills in counseling. In this experimental study, 62 midwifery students were randomly allocated in role playing and traditional training groups to participate in a 4 hour workshop about counseling skills for IUD clients. Before and after the workshop students' skills in counseling were assessed. The data gathering tools included a self evaluation form and evaluation checklists for assessing students' performance in counseling before and after IUD insertion. Comparisons were made using Chi square, Fisher exact text, t-student, Man-Whitney, paired t-test, and Wilcoxon by SPSS software. Results: The mean of students' score in counseling before and after IUD insertion was not different between the two groups in pretest, but the post-tests of the 2 groups in both skills were significantly different. There was a significant difference between pretest and posttest scores in both groups regarding the two skills. Teaching by role playing leads to a better learning of counseling skills. Employing this educational method is recommended for training counseling skills to students