Advising vs. Mentoring
In a research setting, how does mentoring differ from technical advising? Consider the following scenario in which a graduate student is meeting with her faculty advisor. Click on the doors below to explore how the meeting might progress in three different contexts.
Carla is a basic science graduate student working in the laboratory of Dr. York. During one of their regular meetings, Dr. York begins the conversation by asking, “Did you finish that new experiment yesterday?”
Basic Advising
After Carla explains her experiment, Dr. York responds, “These are exciting results, but different from those you obtained before. Did you change the protocol in any way? I’d like you to repeat the experiments with the addition of this new control. We can talk again afterwards.”
Take home point: At a basic level, advising involves only brief, business-like discussions about research results or accomplishments of assigned duties.
Intermediate Advising
After Carla explains her experiment, Dr. York responds, “These are exciting results, but different from those you obtained before. Why do you think that is? I suggest you read this paper by Professor Marvelous to help you think about this more. I’d also like to hear your ideas about what experiments you might do next to test, and maybe strengthen your interpretation of the data. These findings could take the project in a new direction.”
Take home point: At an intermediate level, advising may also include specific discussion and assignments to advance an advisee’s critical thinking, problem solving skills, and ability to foresee the next step or question in the research, with the goal of encouraging progression to independence.
Mentoring
After Carla explains her experiment, Dr. York responds, “These are exciting results, but different from those you obtained before. You’ll need to do some additional experiments to confirm the findings, but assuming they hold up you’ll have an interesting paper. Manuscript reviewers will definitely want to see some additional controls. At our next meeting, let’s review the new data that you get, then create a general outline for a paper. You should be first author, but I can work with you to help you articulate your ideas succinctly and identify a target journal. You should also discuss these data in your practice job talk with the rest of the faculty next week. I can ask Professor Marvelous to attend; given her expertise, she might have some ideas about alternative interpretations or future work.”
Take home point: Mentoring can include the elements of technical advising but extends beyond the project at hand to include discussions and actions that support the overall career development of a mentee, drawing heavily from the mentor’s experience, influence, and expertise in the profession.
