The Importance of a Strong Orientation with CLEAR Expectations and Creating a Sense of Belonging

Episode 1 – The Importance of a Strong Orientation with CLEAR Expectations and Creating a Sense of Belonging

Starting a rotation can feel overwhelming for students—but a strong orientation sets the tone for everything that follows. In this first episode of The Preceptor’s Compass, co-hosts Jennifer MacDougall and Harriet Davies sit down with Michael MacNeil, Education Coordinator at Nova Scotia Health, and Naomi Hayden, 2022 Pharmacy graduate and recent Preceptor of the Year, to explore how preceptors can set their students up for success from day one.

We will dig into why orientation matters, how to create a true sense of belonging, and practical ways to set and revisit expectations throughout a rotation. Along the way, we will introduce the CLEAR framework, a simple tool to help preceptors communicate expectations in a way that is consistent, supportive, and easy to apply in both hospital and community settings.

Whether you are an experienced preceptor or stepping into the role for the first time, this episode will give you actionable strategies to strengthen orientation, foster confidence, and build a positive learning culture that benefits both students and practice sites.

Notes:

One helpful tool for setting those expectations early is the CLEAR framework—And we want to give a quick shout-out to Dr. Natalie Kennie-Kaulbach, the Practice Experience faculty member here at the College of Pharmacy, who developed the CLEAR mnemonic, as a practical way for preceptors to structure meaningful conversations about expectations.

CLEAR

• C is for Create categories of expectations to discuss—like communication, professionalism, or clinical decision-making.

• L stands for List specific actions or behaviors you expect from your learner.

• E is Early on—meaning these conversations should happen right at the start of the rotation.

• A is Ask questions to check for shared understanding—do not just assume alignment.

• And R is for Revisit expectations throughout the rotation as the student grows.

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