Mentors? Impact on the Development of Adaptability Skills Via Experiential Learning

Carylynn Kemp

Advisor: .

The Hub, VIP 1
December 03, 2007, 07:00 PM to 07:00 PM

Abstract:

This research investigated the process of protege development, focusing on the development of adaptability skills via experiential learning. Mentors facilitated skill development by challenging proteges to conceptualize--to think in new ways. This finding highlights the importance of conceptualization as the stage of learning during which new mental models are formed, as well as the importance of challenging proteges to conceptualize. Mentors also facilitated development by frequently instructing proteges to intuitively grasp new concepts and to experiment with new skills. Outcomes of skill development included performance improvement and satisfaction. Mentoring functions (e.g., career development facilitation) served as the mechanisms through which mentors instructed proteges to engage in experiential learning activities. Data also suggested that development can occur through non-experiential activities (e.g., cognitive learning, social learning). Implications for mentor training and future research are discussed.