A preceptor focus group approach to evaluation of a dietetic internship.

Geographical dispersion of preceptors within dietetic internship programs creates educational challenges. Iowa State University's dietetic internship utilizes preceptors from more than 90 facilities statewide. Three preceptor focus groups were conducted to identify strengths and areas needing improvement in the internship, including preceptor and intern needs and expectations. Of the more than 90 preceptors representing medical nutrition therapy, foodservice management, and community nutrition, 36 were contacted and 18 preceptors participated, resulting in 5 to 7 participants per focus group. Emerging themes included effective feedback; preceptor networking; and communication between internship program/faculty, interns, and preceptors. Geographic isolation and minimal use of Internet-based resources may contribute to these themes. Whereas the majority of preceptors had access to the Internet, only 7 (38%) had accessed the Internet-based resources provided by the program. Preceptor suggestions can provide new perspectives for enhancing the learning environment. Regional workshops and e-mail list-serves can help facilitate communication and networking among preceptors.