“They hold your fate in their hands”: Exploring the power dynamic in the midwifery student-preceptor relationship

Navigating power dynamics between pharmacy preceptors and learners

“…Different types of feedback have an impact on the student-preceptor relationship as well as power dynamic. 35 , 36 Consider formal versus informal feedback. There is no widely accepted definition for formal and informal feedback.…”

“…Preceptors are in a position of authority over the student and determine the students' rotation grade whether there is a letter grade or pass-fail system in place. 35 It is inevitable that there may be some conflict between preceptors and students overall based on differing expectations, communication styles, learning styles, baseline knowledge of learners, and professionalism. 4 However, the conflict does not have to derail the learning or precepting experience.…”

“…Supportive feedback, which fosters a positive preceptor-student relationship, has shown to encourage students and provide a better learning environment that elevates student confidence. 35 However, similarly to informal feedback, there is a limit to the effectiveness of supportive feedback if the message is not properly conveyed or if the feedback is “sugarcoated” using the sandwich feedback method. 42 , 43 Students may not realize that supportive feedback is important to incorporate into their work if it is not direct enough.…”

“…Stern or demeaning feedback from a preceptor, whether purposeful or accidental, may diminish the preceptor/student relationship, worsen the learning experience, and negatively impact student outlook. 35 For example, a preceptor may inadvertently laugh or roll their eyes while listening to a student patient presentation before rounds. These actions can profoundly affect the student's self-confidence as well as make the student feel inferior in the eyes of the preceptor.…”