Risquez_2008_e-mentoring.pdf (707.84 kB)
Download fileE-mentoring: an extended practice, an emerging discipline
This chapter integrates existing literature and developments on electronic mentoring to build a constructive
view of this modality of mentoring as a qualitatively different concept from its traditional face-to-face
version. The concept of e-mentoring is introduced by looking first into the evasive notion of mentoring.
Next, some salient e-mentoring experiences are identified. The chapter goes on to note the differences
between electronic and face-to-face mentoring, and how the relationship between mentor and mentee
is modified by technology in unique and definitive ways. Readers are also presented with a collection
of best practices on design, implementation, and evaluation of e-mentoring programs. Finally, some
practice and research trends are proposed. In conclusion, the author draws an elemental distinction
between both modalities of mentoring, which defines e-mentoring as more than the defective alternative
to face-to-face contact.