Dr Ricer is predoctoral director at the University of Cincinnati s Department of Family Medicine. Preceptor, mentor, and role model are three of the most common terms used to describe interactions that family physicians may have with medical students. The terms, at time, can be confusing. A role model is an example, someone whose behaviors, personal styles, or specific attributes are emulated by others. This is usually a passive role.
Role models can be positive or negative.
Role models do not have to be known personally by those trying to emulate their behaviors. The role model s behaviors are an ideal after which the students can pattern their own behavior. A preceptor is more of a clinical teacher. The preceptor is concerned with enhancing the clinical competency of students 2 or the teaching and learning aspect of their professional development. A mentor is more of a coach or trusted counselor and usually has prolonged contact with a student over many months or years but not necessarily in any formal course or formal evaluation.