What is a Preceptor?
A preceptor is an experienced health professional that provides a learning experience or "on-the-job-training" to a student in the preceptor's workplace. Preceptorship involves teaching, demonstrating, and observing the student as well as providing feedback and support. Many health science students require a certain number of hours in one-to-one placement with a preceptor in order to graduate. A preceptor has a vital role in developing safe, skilled, ethical professionals for the future.
Am I eligible?
As a qualified professional you are eligible to be a preceptor. Each profession has its own unique method of involving professionals in precepting. Even in you have worked in your profession for many years you may still need to develop your communication skills or learn more about being an effective preceptor. A good clinician is not automatically a good teacher. This website contains training modules, resources and links that will help you develop your skills and evaluate your readiness.
Get credit for your learning!
Many professional regulatory bodies in Saskatchewan permit their members to include self-directed learning activities towards their continuing education requirements. Completing the e-Tips modules and documenting learning from other resources found on this website may qualify. Some regulatory bodies also allow members to get credit for their time spent as a preceptor to a student learner.
Refer to the continuing education guidelines on your regulatory body's website or check with a representative if you are uncertain.
Do I evaluate the student?
Some student programs involve the preceptor in student evaluation. Check with the program to discover your role in student evaluation.
Why be a Preceptor?
Understand the benefits of preceptorship for both the preceptor and the student with this tip sheet.
Effective Preceptors
This tip sheet outlines the interpersonal, clinical, and teaching skills that are important in being an effective preceptor.
Preceptor Roles
Curious about the basic expectations of preceptors? This tip sheet will explain the roles and responsibilities of a preceptor.
Time for Reflection
Take some time to reflect on your preceptorship style with this list of thought provoking questions.
References and Further Reading
This is a list of the resources used to create the preceptor tips sheets by the University of Lethbridge. Many of these articles can be downloaded through SHIRP.