Purpose

A clinical instructor is an experienced practitioner who provides supervision during clinical practice and facilitates the application of theory to practice for students and staff learners. They assist the learner by setting expectations, providing effective feedback about their performance, and providing appropriate opportunities to meet their learning objectives.

Des Moines University supports healthcare providers who choose to actively participate in our student's education by offering excellent clinical training opportunities. Clinical instructors not only transmit skills but also serve as mentors who convey the core values important to Des Moines University: accountability, collaboration, honesty, inclusiveness, and wellness. 

Clinical instructors do what no textbook or classroom can accomplish. As a result, the students benefit from the community-based experience, while preceptors benefit from integrating new ideas and techniques into their practices currently taught in academic health sciences institutions. Join us for a series of educational opportunities that provide precepting pearls to aid in shaping the next generation of clinicians.

Learning Objectives

1. Discuss preceptor/clinical instructor attributes and techniques that facilitate learning.
2. Describe strategies students use to optimize learning in the practice/clinical environment.
3. Discuss best practices to address any challenges encountered.

Facilitator 

Tracy Porter, PT, DPT, EdD, is the assistant director of clinical education and associate professor in the Des Moines University Department of Physical Therapy.  Before joining Des Moines University, she served as academic coordinator of clinical education for a physical therapist assistant program.  She has 24 years of clinical experience in a variety of practice settings.  Areas of expertise include temporomandibular joint dysfunction, pathophysiology, and wellness.  Dr. Porter graduated from Des Moines University in 1997 with a Master of Science in physical therapy and earned her Doctor of Physical Therapy degree from Washington University in 2012.  She graduated with a Doctor of Educational Leadership degree from Concordia University in 2020.  She has been active in leadership in APTA Iowa as a delegate, secretary, vice president, and president. Full biography.

Student Panel

• Taylor Ann Blickenderfer, DPT'25
• Sam Corey, PA'24
• Mackenzie Dephillips, DPT'25
• Samuel David Farrell, DPT'25
• Ethan Filby, DPT'25
• Erika Jeanes, DPT'25
• Madison Mealey, PA'24
• Eric Thomas La Rue, DPT'25
• Calla Valiquette, PA'24

Terms of Use and Privacy Policy

Recording date: January 17, 2024
Date of original release: January 17, 2024
Most recent review/update: January 17, 2024
Termination date: January 16, 2026