Mentoring Experiences of New Online Teachers: Voices of Graduate and Early Career Instructors

Heather Garcia; Mary Ellen Dello Stritto

doi:10.20343/teachlearninqu.12.28

Authors

Heather Garcia Oregon State University - Ecampus https://orcid.org/0009-0002-3638-5718
Mary Ellen Dello Stritto Oregon State University - Ecampus https://orcid.org/0000-0002-2046-2849

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.20343/teachlearninqu.12.28

Keywords:

mentoring , online instructors, professional development, higher education

Abstract

This research study explores the mentoring experiences of graduate student and early career instructors who teach online courses at a mid-size public university in the United States. As members of a centralized online learning unit that works with instructors teaching online courses across a range of disciplines, we sought to better understand the mentoring experiences of instructors who are new to online teaching. Using a narrative methodology, we analyzed interview transcripts and found that graduate student and early career instructors have variable access to mentoring, experience different sources of mentoring, and engage with multiple types of mentoring. We found that graduate student instructors have more access to different sources and types of mentoring than early career instructors, but that both groups desired additional mentoring opportunities. Participants recognized the value of mentoring experiences as part of their overall professional development. We conclude with suggested actions for units looking to support mentoring for online instructors.

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Author Biographies

Heather Garcia, Oregon State University - Ecampus

Heather Garcia (USA) is an E-campus instructional design specialist at Oregon State University, in Corvallis, Oregon. She partners with faculty and guides them through the development of online courses. She is also a PhD candidate in the College of Education.

Mary Ellen Dello Stritto, Oregon State University - Ecampus

Mary Ellen Dello Stritto (USA) is the E-campus director of research at Oregon State University, in Corvallis, Oregon. She conducts research on online teaching and learning, supports faculty research on online education, and produces tools to promote research literacy.

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