Beyond the Grades: Can Preceptor Evaluations Predict Exam Success?

In this episode, hosts Trenton Honda, PhD, MMS, PA-C, editor-in-chief of the Journal of PA Education, and Carey Barry, MHS, PA-C, chair and associate clinical professor at Northeastern University, talk with Kevin Bogenschutz, DMS, PA-C, assistant professor of PA Studies at Butler University, about his recent research exploring whether preceptor evaluations can predict PANCE and End-of-Rotation (EOR) exam performance. Bogenschutz shares his path from preceptor to researcher and reflects on the critical role of preceptors in assessing students beyond academic knowledge—evaluating skills, professionalism, and communication. The conversation dives into the design of his study, the importance of preceptor training, and what the findings reveal about assessment in PA education. While the study found some statistically significant correlations, Bogenschutz explains why preceptor evaluations alone may not serve as reliable predictors of standardized exam outcomes. The discussion concludes with a look ahead to future research opportunities, including job placement trends and how artificial intelligence could shape the future of medical education.   Show notes JPAE article: Assessing the Assessments: Do Preceptor Evaluations Predict Physician Assistant National Certifying Exam and End of Rotation Performance? The JPAE Podcast is produced by Association Briefings.