Preceptors' Knowledge, Skills, and Attitudes Toward Precepting Dietetic Interns and Training Perceptions

Abstract

Dietetic preceptors play a critical role in educating and mentoring future registered dietitian nutritionists throughout the internship. A mixed-methods research study was conducted from September to October 2019 to examine US dietetic preceptors' knowledge, skills, and attitudes (KSAs) toward precepting and training. Of the 141 participants who completed the quantitative survey, their KSAs were high (4.5/5). From the qualitative feedback, preceptors (n = 15) expressed the need for further training in the areas of communication, teaching, and evaluation and preferred training online or through webinars. This provides an opportunity for developing tailored training materials to support preceptors as they educate future dietitians.