So You Are a Clinical Instructor-Now What?

Abstract

Many nuclear medicine technologists find themselves in the role of clinical instructor, often without much in the way of educational background. This article provides a few recommendations on how to get started in this role. After distinguishing between the roles of affiliate education supervisor and clinical instructor, the article discusses 2 basic tools: the clinical course learning outcomes and the student handbook. Expectations for students are reviewed. An important aspect of clinical instruction is the attitude of the instructor. Clinical instructors can motivate students or demotivate them, with this choice having a significant impact on the student's development. Overall, the desire and determination to be pleasant and helpful to students make the greatest difference in their development into nuclear medicine technologists.