Should we use preceptorships in undergraduate nursing education?

Clinical learning experiences are the cornerstone of undergraduate nursing education as they allow students to apply theory to practice and help them develop as competent practitioners who are prepared for the realities of diverse, complex, and ever-changing practice environments.

The traditional clinical teaching model, where small groups of students work with educators who are on-site facilitating learning, has numerous issues and thus there have been calls for reform. This Creative Controversy focuses on one reform option, the alternative clinical teaching model of preceptorships, which has gained popularity in recent years.

Current evidence surrounding preceptorships in undergraduate education was examined and critiqued.

Despite their popularity, there is a lack of robust evidence surrounding preceptorships and the motivations for using this model remain questionable. Future study is needed so preceptorships are implemented according to evidence-based teaching practices and not clouded by inappropriate motivations. The author challenges readers to question their practices and work to positively contribute to the science and practice of nursing education.