Previous research shows that truancy in upper secondary school positively correlates to the student’s future level of involvement in society. As such, in order to support an individual’s positive development, it is essential to work with early interventions to increase school attendance. One such preventive initiative is to employ full-time mentors who specifically hold the responsibility to monitor and follow-up student’s absence. This study focuses on full-time mentors working in upper-secondary school, and aims to examine a student’s perspective on the work of the full-time mentors. Collection of material has been done through the execution of eight semi-structured interviews with eight students in an upper secondary school in Stockholm, Sweden. The student’s statements have been interpreted and analyzed from the theoretical standpoint of social constructivism. As such, in this study, the work of the mentor as well as the student’s perception of the mentor’s role, is perceived as part of a social process and consequently dependent on its context. This means that components such as the distribution of power between student and mentor have been relevant to consider, in relation to interventions meant to increase student attendance. The study highlights the importance of using communicative tools, and mutual conversations, as well as building and maintaining well-functioning relationships between students and mentors. The result shows that the way that full-time mentors communicate with students, could be made more explicit, so that routines and expectations leading from that communication is clear to the student. In addition, the study’s result also indicate that full-time mentors could better adapt their way of communicating, in order to avoid an unbalanced power distribution between the full-time mentor and the student. The conclusion of the study is that communicative tools, such as relationship-creating and mutual conversations, when thoughtfully applied, can increase participation in school and as such, reduce absence.

Submitted by Filipe dos Santos (fsantos@pucsp.br) on 2017-02-16T12:33:43Z No. of bitstreams: 1 Marilisa Shimazumi.pdf: 13467767 bytes, checksum: e6489aad8bdb8349f096b27880f6fbc4 (MD5) / Made available in DSpace on 2017-02-16T12:33:43Z (GMT). No. of bitstreams: 1 Marilisa Shimazumi.pdf: 13467767 bytes, checksum: e6489aad8bdb8349f096b27880f6fbc4 (MD5) Previous issue date: 2017-02-03 / Pontifícia Universidade Católica de São Paulo - PUCSP / This research study aims at describing and interpreting the phenomena what it means to be a mentor and experience mentoring in a teacher development programme involving teachers of English. This investigation took place throughout the year of 2012 and focused on the mentoring process experienced by twenty mentors working with 335 teachers of English of a private language institute whose headquarters are situated in the city of São Paulo, with 25 schools in the state of São Paulo and Santa Catarina. The mentoring programme investigated in this study, consisted of a 60-hour induction course held in February where mentors were familiarized with the mentoring programme of the institution, 16 meetings held every other fortnight involving all the mentors throughout the year, and collaborative cycles of work between mentors and mentees which revolved around the planning, the execution, the observation, the reflection and new action plans based on lessons given by the mentees. In order to carry out this research study, we have adopted a qualitative approach to research, more specifically, the Hermeneutic-phenomenological approach based on M. Freire (2010, 2012) and influenced by van Manen (1990). The texts used to understand and interpret the phenomena in this investigation were generated longitudinally, as from February 2012, along 12 months, as the mentoring programme evolved. These texts consist of institutional reports and spontaneously-generated texts by the different participants in the programme, totalling 979 texts altogether. Four are the theoretical pillars on which this study is based: reflection in/on action (SCHÖN 1983, 1998/2000), the KASA decision-making model (FREEMAN 1989), the experiential learning model (KOLB 1984), and the model of awareness to describe communication process in human interactions (Johari Window by LUFT 1969). This study has revealed that both the phenomena can be best understood as being structured by four major themes: transformations, relationships, roles and reflection - which are then subdivided into subthemes / Esta pesquisa tem por objetivo descrever e interpretar a natureza dos fenômenos: o ser mentor e o experienciar a mentoria de professores de inglês em formação contínua. O foco desta pesquisa é o trabalho de mentoria desenvolvido por vinte mentores ao longo do ano de 2012 com 335 professores de um instituto de idiomas com sede na cidade de São Paulo e 25 unidades nos estados de São Paulo e Santa Catarina. O programa de mentoria desenvolvido neste trabalho, consistiu de um curso de 60 horas de familiarização e contextualização sobre o programa de mentoria na instituição, 16 encontros quinzenais com todos os mentores ao longo do ano, e módulos de trabalhos colaborativos entre mentores e mentorandos organizados por ciclos de planejamento, execução, observação, reflexão e nova conceituação sobre aulas ministradas e observadas. Para a realização deste estudo, adotamos a metodologia de cunho qualitativa, mais especificamente, a abordagem Hermenêutico-Fenomenológica representada pela visão de M. Freire (2010, 2012) e influenciada por van Manen (1990). Os textos utilizados para a interpretação nesta pesquisa foram gerados a partir de fevereiro de 2012, de forma longitudinal, por 12 meses, à medida em que os mentores trabalhavam com seus mentorandos. Tratam-se de relatos oficiais e relatos espontâneos totalizando 979 textos. Quatro construtos teóricos, a saber: a reflexão na/sobre a ação (SCHÖN 1983, 1998/2000), (2) o modelo descritivo de tomada de decisões KASA (FREEMAN 1989), (3) o modelo de aprendizagem experiencial (KOLB 1984), e (4) o modelo de prática de (auto-) conhecimento e reflexão (Janela de Johari de LUFT 1969) serviram de pilares teóricos que informaram o trabalho de mentoria neste estudo. Este estudo revela que o ser mentor e o experienciar a mentoria de professores de inglês em formação contínua se estruturam em quatro temas centrais: transformações, relações, papéis, e reflexão - os quais se subdividem em subtemas que, assim, revelam a natureza do fenômeno investigado

This thesis explores the impact of mentor and mentee personality type in formal mentoring relationships. The research sought to identify whether there were individual personality characteristics which impact on relationship dynamics and the learning derived from these relationships. The Myers Briggs Type Indicator (MBTI) was used to identify personality type thus ensuring that the research had practical utility in organisations. Twelve mentoring dyads from public, private and third sector mentoring initiatives participated in the study which adopted an exploratory and qualitative methodology. Multiple methods were used to collect data and an analysis framework was developed, using Activity Theory tenets, to synthesise the different data sets and create narratives of each mentoring relationship. The thesis argues that by enhancing understanding of Type Theory in mentoring relationships, informal learning can be enhanced for mentors and mentees. The research shows how informal learning within mentoring dyads often stems from social comparison and thus differences between mentor and mentee can provide a medium for learning in the workplace. The findings suggest that this will be particularly pertinent for mentors. In addition, the study conclusions highlight the value of using the MBTI to support mentoring relationship development thus enhancing the potential for further learning. The research finds that individual differences will determine the extent to which relationships operate on a traditional, peer or reverse level and not demographic differences as suggested in the extant literature. Furthermore, common personality preferences were identified in individuals who are drawn to the role of mentor and an initial framework for a typology of mentoring relationships was developed. There were two main limitations of the research. First, the study employed a cross-sectional design which resulted in data being collected from participants at different stages of the mentoring relationship. The second limitation concerned the small sample size. Whilst sample size is less relevant in qualitative research, the study sample cannot be considered representative of all formal mentoring programmes or even the programmes studied. The intention was to identify informative cases which would address the research objectives and this was subsequently achieved. The research has contributed to the body of mentoring knowledge by drawing theory from one academic field into another. The findings provide new insights into individual differences and mentoring relationship dynamics thus adding to a sparse area of knowledge in mentoring research. Further, the findings challenge some of the assumptions implicit in the extant literature and highlight the need to examine the construct of mentoring from a broader social science perspective.

Formal mentoring programs rely on mentors to build supportive relationships with youth with the intention of providing positive developmental opportunities for the youth. This dissertation, which includes three studies, explores the experiences of mentors, focusing on factors that contribute to mentors committing to and sustaining mentoring relationships, and how mentors approach building a supportive relationship. Study 1 develops and tests a conceptual model of mentor retention integrating concepts from the volunteerism and interpersonal relationship literatures to predict mentor retention. Participants were 51 college student-mentors. Path analysis showed support for the conceptual model. Mentor retention was predicted by their commitment but not by role identity. Role identity was positively related to mentor commitment. Role identity was predicted by relationship satisfaction, available alternatives and investment; only satisfaction predicted commitment. Study 2 examined how program practices influence mentor commitment utilizing secondary data from 551 mentors from mentoring programs involved in a large, randomized controlled trial evaluating an intervention to improve mentoring program quality. Path analysis demonstrated that how well the mentor felt the program set expectations and whether they were matched with a youth based on their preferences were associated with the mentor’s commitment. The relationships between commitment and program practices were partially mediated by the mentor’s relationship satisfaction and available alternatives. Study 3 explores how mentors approach building their mentoring relationship, whether different approaches contribute to supports offered to the youth, and if there are differences by gender or whether the mentor has previous experience mentoring. Thematic analysis of 16 mentoring relationships did not identify any specific approach as best. Instead, what mattered was the fit of the approach with the specific circumstances of the match. Mentors whose approach fit well or who were able to adapt their approach had the longest matches and provided the most support. Males were more often described to have an approach that was a good fit and to have provided more support. Whether previous mentoring experience helped a mentor build the relationship and support the youth depended on how the previous relationship went and how it influenced the mentor’s expectations with regard to the current match.

The purpose of this multi case study was to better understand voice in first grade science writing. Voice is the ability for individuals to synchronize specific narrative elements to express themselves with greater confidence and individuality. Three first-grade participants were chosen and their use of voice in science writing was examined across 8 weeks. Specific elements of voice were identified within atypical informational texts for primary grade learners in science. The 7 elements include descriptive words, placement of text and picture, creative punctuation, conversational tone, comparisons, imagery, and repeated text. The 7 voice elements were taught to a class of first-grade students. Findings from this study reveal that first graders can use descriptive words, creative punctuation, and conversational tone in their writing with great success before being formally taught, which indicates that these first graders are comfortable using these voice elements in their writing. These first graders also use text and picture placement, comparisons, and imagery prior to the weeks they are taught but with limited success. These first graders do not use repeated text until being formally taught, which indicates that it is a difficult voice element for them to include in science writing. Hand signals prove to be effective in helping these young children grasp the voice elements. Lessons used in the study are included. Mentor texts with examples of voice elements that children emulated during the study are also included and are helpful for these students. In addition to writing with words, these first graders also convey important information through their pictures. These young students can accomplish the requirements found in the Common Core State Standards to provide an opening, supply 3 facts about a subject, and write a conclusion. However, they can do this with a quality of voice that was not present in their writing prior to the unit.

Objective. To assess junior faculty members’ perceptions regarding the impact of past faculty-mentoring relationships in their career decisions, including the decision to pursue postgraduate training and ultimately an academic career. Methods. A mixed-mode survey instrument was developed and an invitation to participate in the survey was sent to 2,634 pharmacy faculty members designated as assistant professors in the American Association of Colleges of Pharmacy (AACP) directory data. Results. Usable responses were received from 1,059 pharmacy faculty members. Approximately 59% of respondents indicated that they had received encouragement from 1 or more faculty mentors that was very or extremely influential in their decision to pursue postgraduate training. Mentor and mentee pharmacy training characteristics and postgraduate training paths tended to be similar. US pharmacy degree earners rated the likelihood that they would have pursued an academic career without mentor encouragement significantly lower than did their foreign pharmacy and nonpharmacy degree colleagues (p = 0.006, p = 0.021, respectively). Conclusions. For the majority of junior pharmacy faculty members, faculty mentoring received prior to completing their doctor of pharmacy degree or nonpharmacy undergraduate degree influenced their subsequent career decisions.

No description available.

Turnover of experienced nurses is a component of the nursing shortage, which has created a lack of expert nurses administering bedside care. The project site is a Chicago suburban hospital with an average first year turnover of experienced nurses at 35%. This rate is above the 27% first year turnover reported by the Metropolitan Chicago Healthcare Council. This project focused on development and evaluation of an evidence-based mentorship program supported by theory that can contribute to an increase in experienced nurse retention. A detailed literature review references causative factors of turnover, such as an increasing workload, a multigenerational and aging workforce, and a lack of belonging as reasons for job dissatisfaction and separation of employment. These factors were also cited in exit interviews of nurses resigning from the project site. Synthesis of the literature suggests that an evidence-based, theory-supported, nurse mentorship program may decrease experienced nurse turnover and increase the longevity of the nurse providing bedside care. The social cognitive career theory and components of Zey's mutual benefits model were used in the design of the mentorship program to include the mentor, mentee, and culture of the organization. Program design and materials were evaluated by 10 experienced nurses. The program was approved by 100% of the formative panel and was recommended for summative review by the 4-member nurse executive council. The summative review resulted in a final approval to implement the program. Implementation of this project will create social change through empowerment of experienced nurses and by providing strong mentors for new nurses resulting in reduced turnover of both new and experienced nurses, increased job satisfaction, reduced replacement costs, and improved patient care.

The purpose of this qualitative, narratological research was to gain a deeper understanding of the stories of three African American counselor educators who experienced research mentorship as counseling students and faculty members while working towards tenure. The three participants were employed as assistant professors in CACREP-accredited counselor education graduate programs provided their perspectives of research mentorship. The primary research question for my research was: How do pre-tenured African American female counselor educators perceive their research mentorship experiences? The foundation for my study was provided by the review of literature focused on critical race theory, marginalized groups in academe, mentorship among specific populations, and research mentorship Semi-structured interviews were used to collect data. The transcribed interviews, vitas, and faculty profiles were analyzed by within-case and cross-case analysis. The findings indicated seven super-ordinate themes. 1) Benefits of Research Mentorship, 2) Social Racial Membership with Other Forms of Marginalization, 3) Professional Networking/Support, 4) Perceptions of Institutional Climate and Culture, 5) Perceptions of Research Mentoring Experiences, 6) Barriers of Research Mentorship, and 7) Behaviors that Foster Effective Research Mentoring. Implications for students and counselor educators along with recommendations for future research are presented. Personal reflections of the researcher are provided.

Assembly Bill 12 was passed into law for the purpose of preparing foster youth for the transition into adulthood and provided extended support services and transitional support up to the age of 21. This qualitative study focuses on the experiences and outcome of foster youth who are participating in extended care services. Key findings were identified in the areas of education, social and emotional support, and living arrangements. These key findings provide the social workers with a better understanding of the difficulties associated with the complexity involving the transition to young adulthood. The implications of key findings have resulted in potential contributions to social work at the micro level. Suggestions include: Social worker’s increase their knowledge of the supportive resources that are appropriate for the young adult foster youth and to be well versed in the requirements of AB 12. It is further suggested, at the macro level, curriculums be developed that will connect the traditional role of social work to characteristics involving coaching and mentoring.