A Mentor Is...

[Mark McLeod]

Originally Posted by lukevanoort

I would change #18 to (changes in bold)
#18 Begins as a teacher and evolves into a colleague. Discusses, never lectures. Begins with explanations for new students, ends with colleague discussions.
And add
#37 Explanations should be two-way.

I know that lecturing often has its place, and this difference is very minor, but it seems to make a big difference. I know from giving lectures to other students on drivetrain design, that it often results in "Get on with it, and to the point" mentalities, which a student is more likely to voice if another student is talking, but will still feel if an adult mentor is talking. A two-way discussion, in my experience, is much better than a one way lecture, at least you can tell if the students are mentally engaged in the teaching.

Good re-statement!
I was uncomfortable with the word "lecture" too. Makes me think I just broke a window or something.

I hate listening to myself talk and do try to turn all presentations into a discussion - usually by making progressively outrageous statements until I get a rise out of someone.