A preceptor development program using an interactive board game

Colleges and schools of pharmacy and residency programs must be engaged in the purposeful development of their preceptors. Preceptor development needs vary widely from a new preceptor needing foundational preceptor skills to a more experienced preceptor who may wish to incorporate more sophisticated precepting methods such as layered learning or interprofessional precepting. It can be challenging to create preceptor development activities that meet these varied needs and keep preceptors of all levels engaged.

The Preceptor's Game of Life was developed to incorporate serious gaming into preceptor development to increase engagement and promote learning across all precepting levels. This game was designed to review precepting fundamentals and focused heavily on the application of these principles to authentic precepting scenarios. An element of friendly competition, collaboration, and storytelling created a safe and fun environment where participants could discuss solutions to scenario-based problems.

The Preceptor's Game of Life has been well received by state and national audiences. Audience members were engaged and invested as they discussed the scenarios presented. Individual, informal feedback following the session and formal session evaluations were positive.

Though the Preceptor's Game of Life required careful logistical planning, the outcome was positive. High levels of engagement amongst the participants were noted in the form of note taking and audience participation. Audience members appreciated activating their prior knowledge and experiences and applying that to future scenarios. This manuscript serves as a tool for others interested in novel preceptor development methods.