Creating fertile learning spaces: Mentorship strategies to support academic success

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Research and Development in Higher Education Vol. 36: The Place of Learning and Teaching

July, 2013, 534 pages
Published by
Frielick, S., Buissink-Smith, N., Wyse, P., Billot, J., Hallas, J. and Whitehead, E.
ISBN
Abstract 

Mentorship is often cited as one of the most critical factors in setting up an academic for success. However, the underutilisation of mentorship opportunities by early career academics points to a significant gap between good intentions and effective implementation of schemes. This paper briefly describes a range of successful mentorship schemes that have been implemented in the United States and Australia. It then draws on these examples to articulate a set of design principles that can increase the likely success of formal academic mentorship programmes. These principles highlight the criticality of positioning mentorship as a strategic discussion linked to clear and well-formulated career goals. The paper also highlights the need to better evaluate the long-term and direct effects of mentoring experiences.

Keywords: mentorship; academic identity; academic development