Mentoring TAFE teachers: support, challenge, vision, and trust

This paper discusses the design, implementation and evaluation of a pilot mentoring program developed within a large TAFE institute. Empirical evidence gathered through questionnaires and interviews with mentors and mentees at the completion of a pilot program in 2006 will be presented. The paper describes a mentoring program aimed at supporting mentors and mentees in a learning relationship that benefits both parties and was based on adult learning principles and critical reflection. The program centred on a five phase model: preparation; negotiation; nurturing growth; closure; and redefinition. Components of the program included introductory workshops, a handbook, an optional workshop, a mentoring network, and co-ordinator support. A learner centred approach was used at all levels of the program. Workshops were facilitated using a constructivist framework and encouraged critical reflection for both mentor and mentee.

Published abstract.

Available papers from the 10th Australian Vocational Education and Training Research Association (AVETRA) Conference are indexed from TD/TNC 89.401 to TD/TNC 89.447. Show less