I like to think that I'm a bit of a freelance mentorer (!) happy to mentor anyone really, if I have the time and a little more knowledge than my mentee . . .
The best aspect of my job, as an Information Librarian, is coaching students. I demonstrate to them how to use our library resources (e-databases, e-journals,books, e-books and various websites)effectively - so that they get the best possible results. I guess you could call this a form of mentoring.
I have also been a CSO (Candidate Support Officer) with the CDG (Career Development Group) in South Wales for about 3 years. During this time I have helped several candidates with their Chartership portfolio compilation. It's something I enjoy and I find that it comes easily to me.
In terms of being mentored by somebody else, I haven't had a great deal of experience. I know which courses I've attended over the years have worked well, or not, so I'm able to appreciate different teaching styles - what's effective and what's not.
When I was doing my first degree with the Open University (because it's all about distance learning) we were encouraged to set up small student 'groups' to help each other along. I know that this definately didn't work for me. In all honesty I found it a complete drawback. People learn at different paces and when you're trying to crack on with something, against a deadline, helping others along can be another source of stress. I've discovered that if I really want to understand something, the best way for me to learn is to get my head down, without distractions, and get on with it . . .
No comments:
Post a Comment