Elective preceptorship: a cooperative opportunity for baccalaureate nursing education and nursing service

The elective summer preceptorship described in this article has been successful in facilitating socialization into professional nursing. The professional socialization process for students is described as "a sense of identity and commitment to the profession by internalizing the norms, values, knowledge, skills, and behaviors shared by members of that profession" (American Association of Colleges of Nursing, 1986, p. 3). Review of the evaluative data from students and preceptors has validated that the preceptorship contributes to the professional socialization of students. Preceptors have also indicated that they experienced personal growth and satisfaction in their educational role with students. The experience has served to enhance their own professional development. Clinical agency staff and the students have been involved in a collaborative learning opportunity which fostered interagency relationships and has taken a step in improving health care.