Telementoring at CQU

Abstract

Face-to-face mentoring is impractical in distance education. Since the beginning of 1999, Central Queensland University has offered a mentor program for distance education students using telecommunication technology to develop and sustain mentoring relationships which offer non-academic support. In 2001 the program involved 255 mentees and 44 mentors. The distance mentor program involves linking small groups of first-year students with an experienced distance education student. The program is co-facilitated by the Division of Teaching & Learning Services and Counselling, Careers & Health. This paper describes the mechanics of the program, notes the challenges and positives when working across Divisions, explores why students maintain their interest in a non face-to-face support program, and suggests reasons why distance mentoring has become an effective and ongoing element in CQU's support services. Evaluation material and case study comments will form part of the presentation.