Mentoring by Modem
Online or in Person? Mentoring expert Jean Rhodes believes in the all-important role of a consistent and caring adult in a young person's life, but she's not sure e-mail is the most effective way to go. "There are so many nuances to a relationship that cannot be conveyed online," Rhodes says. "I can see eMentoring having an important ancillary role," Rhodes says, "but whether or not it can replace a person to person relationship is unknown."
Research shows that kids in well-structured, traditional mentoring programs demonstrate better grades and test scores, increased school attendance, higher college enrollment rates and improved self-esteem and behavior overall. They also have a decreased likelihood of dropping out of school, using drugs or alcohol, or becoming a teen parent.
But little research on eMentoring specifically has been done to date. "We need to know more," Rhodes says, "because it's spreading."
The Orphan Foundation of America does its own research by conducting entrance and exit interviews with mentors and asking them to fill out monthly questionnaires. The foundation is getting ready to work with Old Dominion University in Virginia and the University of Southern Alabama on a formal evaluation.
According to executive director McCaffrey, people are increasingly reluctant to sign up for traditional one-on-one mentoring programs due to time constraints and issues of liability. What if a young person makes false accusations that they have acted inappropriately? What if they have to move or leave the child's life? E-mail makes it easier. "You have to meet mentors and volunteers in a place that's comfortable for them," McCaffrey says.
"Our program allows people to develop a deep relationship over a period of time," McCaffrey says. "The goal is really to have someone who can take an active interest in the student's education and be a resource."
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