Expectations and experiences of group supervision: Swedish and Norwegian preceptors’ perspectives

Abstract

AIM: The aim of the present study was to describe preceptors' expectations and experiences of participating in group supervision (GS). BACKGROUND: The challenging role of preceptors and their need for support is well known. Therefore, a collaborative project was carried out, providing GS to preceptors to strengthen them in their role. METHOD: Data were collected from 48 preceptors by means of study-specific forms and field notes, and analysed using qualitative content analysis. RESULTS: Both positive and negative expectations and experiences of group supervision were found, but the positive experiences exceeded the expectations. The group in itself had a significant meaning for the preceptors; their pedagogical and personal competence increased and they became aware of their role as 'bridge-builders'. CONCLUSIONS: Using GS to strengthen preceptors in their role was found to be successful. The findings provided new arguments for this model as a reflection tool. IMPLICATIONS FOR NURSING MANAGEMENT: Strengthened preceptors can have an impact on nursing students' learning, and thereby also on future nurses' competence, which is a great concern of nurse managers. By using nurse lecturers as group leaders, the collaboration between the clinical placements and the nursing faculties can be improved.