Mentor Groups
This past semester, over 50 faculty participated in Faculty Mentor Groups sponsored by the TFSC. Many participants reported that involvement with a Mentor Group was a positive, enjoyable experience and provided an opportunity to interact with colleagues as well as a source of many ideas to improve teaching.
What is a Mentor Group?
Mentor Groups are groups of 3-8 faculty who meet occasionally over the course of the semester in order to discuss and develop a specific area of their teaching.
What is the time commitment to participate?
Each group will set its own schedule and agenda, meeting approximately 3-5 times over the course of the semester. Ninety minute slots have been reserved for the groups, but the duration of each meeting is determined by the group.
Where will the groups meet?
Groups will typically meet at the Teaching and Faculty Support Center. Some groups may meet at other places on campus according to need (technology-focussed groups may choose to meet at the Multimedia Resource Center, for example.)
How do I get involved?
Look over the menu of Mentor Groups that are being formed. If you find a group that interests you call ((479)-575-3222) or e-mail (tfsc@uark.edu) the Center and reserve a spot. all groups will meet for the first time at the TFSC during the first week of February (specific time listed for each group).
What can I expect to get out of Mentor Group participation?
Here's what faculty who participated last semester reported as benefits of participation
"Being in a group--the sharing of experience and being able to 'unload' at times."
"Comfortable atmosphere"
"Feedback from tenured profs without the pressure of being with faculty from your own department who may be on your review committee."
"I found the format to be just right for me."
"It encouraged me to think about my teaching and how to improve it. Good for getting to know colleagues in other departments