Graduates of internships and coordinated undergraduate programs--do differences exist?

Area of Science:

• Dietetics
• Nutrition Education
• Professional Credentialing

Background:

• Two primary pathways exist for dietetic practice credentialing: dietetic internships and coordinated programs.
• Comparative effectiveness studies of these pathways have been limited.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess the adequacy of educational preparation and performance of graduates from dietetic internships and coordinated programs.
• To compare graduate and supervisor evaluations at entry-level and after one year of practice.

Main Methods:

• Utilized self-ratings from graduates and evaluations from supervisors.
• Assessed competencies and performance styles at entry-level and one year post-graduation.
• Focused on graduates employed in clinical positions within hospitals or medical centers.

Main Results:

• Both program types were found to adequately prepare entry-level dietetic practitioners.
• Internship graduates showed significantly higher administrative and clinical competencies after one year.
• Internship graduates were rated higher in initiative, self-assurance, and dependability at both assessment points.

Conclusions:

• Both dietetic internships and coordinated programs effectively prepare competent practitioners.
• Dietetic internships may offer advantages in developing specific competencies and performance styles over time.
• Supervisor ratings generally exceeded graduate self-ratings, suggesting potential for enhanced self-awareness training.