An Honors College Peer Mentor Training Curriculum (Clark's Curriculum) Promotes Enhanced Communication and Connection
Location
Exhibition Hall, DeVos Center
Description
PURPOSE: Mentor programs are a valuable method through which to communicate institutional information, and this information is often targeted towards the specific population of incoming first year undergraduate students. However, some university mentors struggle communicating effectively with their assigned mentees. With proper training resources available for the mentors, they will have a better understanding and ability to do their job in maintaining relationships with their assigned mentees. PROCEDURES: This study utilizes theories focused around student environment, student involvement, and student development. To achieve the best implementation of this project it is necessary to look at four main areas: the millennial student, the honors college, the peer mentor role, and technology. CONCLUSION: The Clark’s Curriculum training program will work to shape the communication and development of mentors through their peer role. The implementation of this curriculum will enhance not only the communication of the mentors, but also the organization of the peer mentor role and program as a whole. Participants can be expected to strengthen their student leadership skills, increase their ability to communicate effectively with peers, learn to manage conflict in an efficient and productive manner, and become advocates of their community. IMPACT: The validity of this project will increase with the frequency of its implementation and data collection. The overall benefits aren't limited to either students or the institution; both will see the advantages because with each improvement, students are benefiting through better peer relationships and communication skills, as are the colleges by attracting promising and better developing students.
An Honors College Peer Mentor Training Curriculum (Clark's Curriculum) Promotes Enhanced Communication and Connection
Exhibition Hall, DeVos Center
PURPOSE: Mentor programs are a valuable method through which to communicate institutional information, and this information is often targeted towards the specific population of incoming first year undergraduate students. However, some university mentors struggle communicating effectively with their assigned mentees. With proper training resources available for the mentors, they will have a better understanding and ability to do their job in maintaining relationships with their assigned mentees. PROCEDURES: This study utilizes theories focused around student environment, student involvement, and student development. To achieve the best implementation of this project it is necessary to look at four main areas: the millennial student, the honors college, the peer mentor role, and technology. CONCLUSION: The Clark’s Curriculum training program will work to shape the communication and development of mentors through their peer role. The implementation of this curriculum will enhance not only the communication of the mentors, but also the organization of the peer mentor role and program as a whole. Participants can be expected to strengthen their student leadership skills, increase their ability to communicate effectively with peers, learn to manage conflict in an efficient and productive manner, and become advocates of their community. IMPACT: The validity of this project will increase with the frequency of its implementation and data collection. The overall benefits aren't limited to either students or the institution; both will see the advantages because with each improvement, students are benefiting through better peer relationships and communication skills, as are the colleges by attracting promising and better developing students.