Mentorship as a Professional Learning Tool

• In Event: AERA Roundtable Session Wednesday 10:50 am Four Seasons Ballroom 2-3
  In Roundtable Session: Mentoring and Professional Learning (Table 2)

Abstract

This mini review critically examines 4 empirical studies and one literature review on the effects mentorship has on the professional learning of novice teachers. The purpose of this review is to show how mentorship can be used as a professional learning tool for teachers who are navigating the challenges associated with teaching. The studies reviewed provide empirical support for the claim that mentorship is an effective way to help novice teachers grow professionally. The findings indicate that mentorship can be used to address teacher learning when there is a focus on collegiality, use of high-leverage practices, and educative mentoring activities. These findings suggest that educational institutions should consider extending mentorship opportunities to teachers at varying career stages.

Author

• April M. Stokes, Montclair State University