3.0 Learning Objectives
Learning Objectives
By the end of this chapter, the PSW student, Clinical Instructor, Clinical Advisor, and PSW Preceptor will:
- Identify the PSW Student-Instructor/Advisor-Preceptor Model.
- Explore the role of the Clinical Instructor and Preceptor in supporting students throughout the PSW Clinical Professional Practice courses.
- Use professional communication skills.
- Identify support resources.
The delicate balance of mentoring someone is not creating them in your image, but allowing them to develop themselves. – Steven Spielberg
As essential healthcare team members, Personal Support Workers (PSW’s) often draw on resources and best practices from other healthcare disciplines. They frequently adopt concepts and materials, particularly from the Nursing field, to enhance and guide their practice. In particular, many similarities are present when reviewing preceptorship models.
The two definitions, preceptorship and mentorship, are sometimes used interchangeably in healthcare resources and practices. For the OER, the PSW’s role in supporting the student individually will be referred to as a preceptor.
What is Preceptorship?
A preceptor is a formal relationship between two people where one provides guidance and support as the other adjusts to and performs a new role. The experienced person leads the relationship to promote the learning and development of the student (RNAO, 2017).
What is Mentorship?
A mentor is a person who has the experience and knowledge to guide and support the development of a person who has the potential but less experience (mentee). This relationship is usually long-term, mutually beneficial, and voluntary (RNAO, 2017).
