A comparison between the roles of part-time and full-time clinical tutors: is there a difference?

Recent changes in pre-registration radiographer education required quality issues concerning students' clinical experience to be reviewed. This investigation was undertaken to illuminate one important aspect of clinical education: the way in which clinical tutors spend their time. The study described, quantified and compared the role of part-time tutors with those who are employed full-time. From the data, three main roles for tutors emerged: duties associated with students, duties of a professional nature, and duties which were considered to be developmental. On the basis of the results, it seems reasonable to suggest that, because part-time tutors devote as much time to students as those employed full-time, there is no disadvantage to students. However, further research is required concerning the role and duties of clinical tutors. In addition, recommendations for improving the current methodology are made, if the study is repeated.