Chapter 10: Learing to Mentor: A Student’s Perspective

Using a technology learning model suggested by Chisholm (1994), this chapter presents and analyzes a one-on-one mentoring case. The chapter begins with background on technology mentoring, followed by an exploration of the mentoring process including the challenges, triumphs, and outcomes. Throughout the chapter, there is an emphasis on connecting the mentoring experiences to the literature on mentoring and technology learning. The chapter concludes with suggested creative strategies and tips for approaching the mentoring process.

The idea of students teaching teachers about technology is certainly not a new one. Trotter (1999) describes today’s college students as having a “natural affinity for technology” (p. 45). There are instances where students can be asked to help their instructors develop skills in using technology. Chisholm (1994) gives a classical example of how students can be used as teaching resources in helping instructors and other students develop technology skills.