Quote:
Originally Posted by Joe Ross
While he doesn't address how much mentor vs how much student, it's very clear that no mentor involvement is not the correct answer.
|
Nice find, I vaguely remember hearing this as a student that year. Have they ever come closer to making a ruling on the age old question?
This is what makes FIRST so much more successful, most times, compared to other programs like it; but, I don't think anyone will argue for zero mentor involvement. The question that needs to be answered, and is why this thread is actually constructive: how much is too much mentor?
This isn't some all or nothing question, it's going to be somewhere in the middle. It's also not going to be a one size fits all solution either. But, the end result of this debate should express the unofficial ruling of the community on the subject. Basically set the median point of what is a generally accepted "okay" level of mentorship. A point that can be pointed to, for those who have no clue what FIRST is about, and say "hey start here and adjust to what works best for you." It is not meant to be perfect for anyone, but that is kinda of the point. FIRST the society is not about any one individual team, but rather something that is separate from the sum of its parts.
This is your (who ever is reading this) opportunity to discuss a subject that has the potential to shift how FIRST looks at itself. Take this opportunity to discuss it and not judge others, or think that others are judging you. Be critical, but not destructive to the conversation and don't be to shy or afraid to express how you view things. Nullifying this discussion by taking stances that each individual team should make their own decision is as destructive to the conversation as screaming that someone is wrong. This isn't specifically about your team, but the community at large. You are a part of FIRST and your ideas count, but others have just as much say as you do in this matter.