Implementation and evaluation of a preceptor educational development programme involving the health cluster colleges at Qatar University

Pharmacist and student evaluation of a preceptor training program in a regional Australian University: a multi-method study

BACKGROUND

Increased emphasis on workplace-based learning within pharmacy curricula has led to a focus on the quality of preceptors and the provision of preceptor training, with a diverse range of training programs for preceptors being developed across the globe. To ensure that preceptors are trained appropriately and deemed to be competent in their role, it is essential that all training programs are suitably evaluated. This research aimed to evaluate an online preceptor training program at a regional Australian University.

METHODS

Kirkpatrick's four level model for assessment of training was used to evaluate this program. A multi method approach included a preceptor post training survey and interviews and a student survey evaluating the preceptor. Preceptor survey data were analysed using descriptive statistics and content analysis, while inductive thematic analysis was used to analyse the interviews. Student evaluations of trained and untrained preceptors were compared to determine whether training had impacted on student-rated preceptor effectiveness.

RESULTS

Twenty-eight preceptor post-training surveys were received, ten preceptor post-training interviews were conducted, and 35 student surveys were completed. The program was rated positively overall, with notable mention by preceptors of the interactive networking session. Following their first post-training student placement, preceptors found that their overall confidence levels had improved, particularly in relation to student management, evaluating students and providing feedback. Student evaluations of preceptors revealed improved ratings of trained versus untrained preceptors, especially as effective communicators.

CONCLUSIONS

This study demonstrated that training had a positive impact on preceptor attitudes, behaviour and confidence levels. From the perspective of the student, training was also found to improve preceptor performance. These results highlight the beneficial effects of training for preceptors, to optimize the student placement experience and their preparation for future practice.

Effect of an Educational Video Miniseries on Interprofessional Preceptor Development

OBJECTIVE

Experiential rotation preceptors may lack confidence in instructing interprofessional learners. This study examined the effect of a 12-episode, professionally produced video miniseries on attitudinal, satisfaction, and confidence outcomes in a cohort of interprofessional preceptors comprising pharmacy, medicine, nursing, and other allied health professionals.

METHODS

An invitation to view the miniseries was distributed to all health science preceptors within 1 large, public health science university. Participants were asked survey questions addressing their attitudes toward the miniseries, their comfort in precepting, and their satisfaction with the miniseries.

RESULTS

A total of 61 interprofessional preceptors enrolled in the study, with 33 completing the entire miniseries. Participants displayed highly positive attitudes toward the miniseries. In addition, members of all professions enrolled demonstrated an increase in precepting confidence after viewing the miniseries episodes (2.31 vs 2.7 on a 3-point Likert scale). Subgroup analyses demonstrated that preceptors with>10 years of professional experience displayed less positive attitudes toward the miniseries than those with 2-10 years of professional experience.

CONCLUSION

The miniseries model proved effective as a preceptor development strategy for a group of health professional preceptors. Given the diversity of learners, a collection of training options that allows preceptor self-selection of programming may be beneficial.