Is Peer Networking preferable to academic mentoring?
The two are not mutually exclusive. There is scope to dove tail and make them complementary to each other. We have examples in this University of faculties running both simultaneously. (ECMS) There is an inherent power imbalance with academic mentoring which does not exist to the same degree in peer networking. However, academic mentoring, can be an effective means of breaking down perceived barriers between academics and students if the academic staff are seen to be approachable and helpful. Peer networking can be useful in allowing new students to ‘rehearse’ how they might best approach academic staff and how to phrase questions to obtain the outcomes they want. Experience shows students who participate are more likely to have the confidence to approach staff if they need assistance.
