Table 4 Mean student scores of trained and untrained preceptors for preceptors’ skills and attributes (18 items) and 4 role groups (n = 35)

M1 - My preceptor was enthusiastic and engaged with me

4.82

4.36

M2 - My preceptor was sufficiently available for me

4.45

4.09

M3 - My preceptor clarified their expectations of me during my placement

4.55

3.82

M4 - My preceptor was able to manage any conflict during my placement

4.90

4.80

Mentor – Group mean score (M1 + M2 + M3 + M4)

4.68

4.27

RM1 - My preceptor was an effective communicator

5.00

4.41 (p = 0.039)

RM2 - My preceptor answered my questions clearly and in a timely manner

4.91

4.50

RM3 - My preceptor demonstrated effective patient counselling and clinical decision making

4.90

4.59

RM4 - My preceptor promoted evidence-based practice and continuing professional development

4.90

4.64

Role Model – Group mean score (RM1 + RM2 + RM3 + RM4)

4.93

4.54

E1 - My preceptor understood my needs as a student

4.81

4.36

E2 - My preceptor understood the educational requirements of JCU Pharmacy

4.82

4.05

E3 - My preceptor was an effective teacher

4.82

4.23

E4 - My preceptor was able to adjust their teaching style to suit my needs

4.82

4.24

E5 - My preceptor provided me with autonomy that was appropriate to my level of experience/competence

4.73

4.55

E6 - My preceptor promoted my critical thinking and problem-solving ability

5.00

4.33

Educator – Group mean score (E1 + E2 + E3 + E4 + E5 + E6)

4.83

4.29

A1 - My preceptor assessed my learning appropriately and fairly

4.82

4.43

A2 - My preceptor provided timely, regular, and constructive feedback to me

4.91

4.27

A3- My preceptor was comfortable in providing any poor feedback to me

4.91

4.48

A4 - My preceptor used online technology effectively when assessing me and providing feedback

5.00

4.60

Assessor – Group mean score (A1 + A2 + A3 + A4)

4.91

4.45