A precepted leadership course based on Bandura's social learning theory

Transition from student to registered nurse (RN) has long been cited as a difficult time for new graduates entering health care. Bandura's (1977) theory of social learning guided a revision of a nursing leadership course required of baccalaureate student nurses (BSNs) in their final semester. The preceptorship allowed students to work closely with and to practice modeled behaviors of RNs and then receive feedback and reinforcement from both the preceptor and the supervising faculty member. Students were thus prepared to function better in the reality of the practice setting. Positive outcomes were experienced by students, BSN preceptors, faculty, and nurse administrators.