Learning Objective #1: Discuss the Glaserian Grounded Theory method and its applicability to the proposed research study.

Learning Objective #2: Discuss the significance of this research study for the advancement of nursing knowledge in the area of advanced nursing practice.

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Preceptorship is a teaching/learning approach in which learners are individually assigned to expert practitioners in the practice setting for the purpose of acquiring daily experience on a one to one basis with a role model and resource person. Currently, the literature is replete with research addressing various aspects of the preceptorship experience including the preceptor role, the evaluation process, and preceptorship and critical thinking in undergraduate and graduate education. To date, no studies have been conducted to examine the process used to promote the education of nurse practitioner (NP) students in the preceptorship experience. The preceptorship experience is an optimal method used by faculty to teach students the role of the NP. The purpose of this presentation is to discuss the proposed research study. The purpose of the proposed research study is fourfold: a) to examine the process involved in the acquisition of knowledge by NP students throughout the preceptorship experience, b) to explore how NP preceptors impart their knowledge throughout the teaching/learning process; c) to determine how faculty contribute to the NP preceptorship experience; and d) to generate a substantive theory that will contribute to an understanding of NP preparation within the context of professional practice. A Glaserian grounded theory method will be used to guide this research. (Word count = 209) 1