Preceptor teaching tips in longitudinal clerkships

• Published in: The clinical teacher Vol. 13; no. 3; pp. 213 - 218
• Main Authors: Latessa, Robyn, Schmitt, Anthony, Beaty, Norma, Buie, Stephen, Ray, Lisa
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: England Blackwell Publishing Ltd 01.06.2016
• Subjects: Ambulatory Care Facilities - organization & administration; Clinical Clerkship - organization & administration; Education, Medical, Undergraduate - organization & administration; Formative Feedback; Humans; Interpersonal Relations; Interviews as Topic; Preceptorship - organization & administration; Teaching - organization & administration
• ISSN: 1743-4971; 1743-498X
• DOI: 10.1111/tct.12416

Summary Background In longitudinal integrated clerkships (LICs), the continuous preceptor and student relationship over time creates opportunities for more in‐depth teaching approaches than shorter preceptorships allow. We identify student perceptions of the most effective teaching practices and develop tips for LIC preceptors. Methods The first four third‐year medical student classes completing the Asheville LIC of the University of North Carolina School of Medicine (UNC SOM) formed the subject group. Between June and August 2013, a trained research assistant (AS) conducted semi‐structured interviews with all 27 UNC SOM Asheville LIC students. Interviews were transcribed and coded by thematic analysis. Results All 27 (100%) students participated in the interviews. We identified seven main themes of successful precepting practices: enhance teaching; create bring‐backs (learning topics to bring back to preceptors); support patient ownership; structure clinic; improve feedback; engage learners; and develop a relationship. These themes were condensed into nine preceptor tips for teaching in LICs. Conclusions The longitudinal relationship of preceptor and student in LIC models affords specific, important opportunities for teaching and learning. The concise list of LIC preceptor tips can be used by preceptors to further optimise their teaching in the LIC setting. We identify student perceptions of the most effective teaching practices and develop tips for LIC preceptors