Mentoring in teaching an informal approach Janicke Visser

Mentoring in teaching - an informal approach - Janicke Visser, Lisanne du Plessis, Debbi Marais Division of Human Nutrition University of Stellenbosch & Tygerberg Academic Hospital

The US lecturer 3 Core responsibilities Teaching Research Service - Equal importance - Daunting task

Division of Human Nutrition n Fortunate & successful n Rector’s award: Teaching “It is important to recognize that being a teacher is more than just one’s occupation; it is who and what you are. ” - Anonymous -

HOW?

Faculty & US n Predac / Prontak – Training programme for newly appointed academic personnel – A must for new lecturers! – Expectations, information, theoretical reflection, practical application of educational principles, INSPIRATION!

Faculty & US n CTL / SOL – Info, links, CTL Forum, support, workshops etc. n Incentives – Rector’s award – Faculty award n Funding opportunities

Division of Human Nutrition n Role models! – Knowledge, teaching & presentation skills n Experts in various fields n Quality Control Committee – Emphasis on good quality teaching n Mechanisms in place to monitor quality – Peer evaluation of lecturers

Human Nutrition Environment conducive to development n “Open-door” policy n Support n Motivation n Sharing of resources and ideas n Constructive criticism

Human Nutrition Environment that embraces: n Student-centred learning & teaching n New technology/multi-media technology – ITV, Web. CT [under-& postgrad (extensively)], etc. n New techniques: methods of teaching

Human Nutrition Environment that embraces: n Teaching-related research n Integration of – teaching, – research & – community service

Human Nutrition Our students: n Tutor-mentor programmes – Under-& postgrad n Student feedback – Extensively used to improve teaching practice n Pro-active

Human Nutrition The people: n Loyal: HN & US n Organised & well-prepared n Up to date n Passionate about the profession & areas of expertise!!

Human Nutrition The people: Experienced colleagues: – supportive & discussion partners – convey insights & experiences – encouragement & motivation – guide, adviser, role model & friend

Structured mentoring programmes? Currently spontaneous mentor/mentee relationships BUT Structured mentoring programmes could ensure uniformity & identification/ support of all academic personnel that need it!

Structured mentoring programmes? Advantages? Positive contribution: n teaching skills n research activity & productivity n career development