To explore the learning experience of first year undergraduate nursing students in relation to their first encounter of the preceptorship model of nursing education

Rationale: In recent years nursing has undergone changes in the way student nurses
are educated from the Apprenticeship Model to the Preceptorship Model of clinical
education. The Preceptorship Model is now an important component of student nurse
training in Ireland.
Aim: The primary aim of this study was to explore the learning experience of first
year undergraduate nursing students in relation to their first encounter of the
preceptorship model of nursing education.
Method: A focus group approach was the method employed to collect data from
participants. The participant group were first year student nurses from a general
undergraduate nursing degree programme. Four focus groups were formed, one group
had six participants, while two had five and one had three. Recorded data was
transcribed verbatim. Data was analysed using a thematic approach, where emerging
themes were identified.
Results: Students reported that they had a positive experience of preceptorship in
terms of quality; however, the lack of quantity of time with the preceptor was viewed
as having a negative impact on the preceptorship experience. Barriers to preceptorship
included lack of time, staff shortage and different shift patterns.
Conclusion: Being valued and being made feel part of a team are important to first
year student nurses. It helps to increase their sense of belonging which is important to
their overall experience. The essence of the preceptorship model, the one to one
relationship the student has with the preceptor, is necessary for the socialisation and
evaluation process of student integration and student learning in the clinical area