Pilot Evaluation of the “Practice Educators’ Academy” Preceptor Development Program for Continuing Health Professional Education Programs in Qatar

Abstract

“The Practice Educators’ Academy Program” is an innovative educational intervention developed following a preceptor-focused needs assessment. This study evaluated the program’s effect on self-efficacy and knowledge amongst multi-disciplinary clinical preceptors who precept students across the Health Cluster in Qatar University, Qatar. Additionally, the study assessed satisfaction with the program’s comprehensiveness, appropriateness, and relevance. The program’s effectiveness was assessed utilizing a pretest-posttest pilot intervention study with a single group of preceptors. Preceptor self-efficacy was assessed using the Preceptor Self-Efficacy Questionnaire, a validated 21-item questionnaire. Preceptor knowledge was assessed through a 25-item multiple-choice question test. Satisfaction with program content and delivery was assessed through a 14-item questionnaire with open comments. Participation of 30 preceptors in the self-efficacy questionnaire resulted in a statistically significant increase in their posttest median score (pretest-to-posttest: 3.3-to-3.6, p= 0.001). Twenty-six preceptors completed the knowledge-based assessment, with a statistically significant increased posttest mean score (pretest-to-posttest: 10.2-to-15.7, p< 0.001). Participants indicated high levels of satisfaction with the program (average score= 4.42/5). Our findings suggest the pilot program is effective as demonstrated through a significant improvement in preceptors’ self-efficacy and knowledge. Recommendations for future iterations include placing greater focus on active learning strategies, and inter-disciplinary integration.