Testing the Efficacy of a Near-Peer Mentoring Model for Recruiting Youth Into Computer Science

• In Event: 43.078 - MTCC Roundtable Session 16
  In Roundtable Session: 43.078-12 - Mentoring Our Youth

Abstract

We developed a near-peer mentoring model for high school youth to mentor middle school youth on how to program using MIT App Inventor in the Intermountain West of the US. The purpose of this study was to investigate (1) the effectiveness of the near-peer mentoring model for the mentees and (2) how the mentees’ vicarious experience with the near-peer mentors led to changes in their self-efficacy and interest in programming. Findings provided evidence for the effectiveness of the model in improving self-efficacy and interest. Path analyses showed how mentor role modeling and perceived similarity contributed to the changes in self-efficacy and interest. Explanations to the findings and their implications are discussed.

Authors

• Chongning Sun, Utah State University

• Jody E. Clarke-Midura, Utah State University