Consortium-based approach to an online preceptor development program

Abstract

Objective. To describe the implementation process of a consortium-based preceptor development program and to review completion and assessment data over the first 27 months. Design. Five 1-hour, Web-based preceptor development modules were developed using streaming media technologies. Modules were released using a password-protected Internet site and were free to consortium-affiliated preceptors. Preceptor's institutional affiliation, module completion dates, module assessments, and continuing education credits were recorded and made available to each institution. Assessment. Three hundred eighty-two preceptors completed 1489 modules. Fifty-six percent of preceptors were affiliated with more than 1 consortium institution. The number of participating preceptors per institution varied from 72 to 204. Sixty-five percent of preceptors completed all 5 modules. Preceptor satisfaction was high, with 93% agreeing with each course evaluation statement. Program cost per institution ranged from $12 to $35 per preceptor. Conclusions. A consortium-based approach to preceptor development is a convenient and effective means of providing required training.