Teachers iN Training Ltd.

Mentoring is not Induction:

The terms “induction” and “mentoring” are often used interchangeably. In actuality, they are NOT the same thing. Induction is a comprehensive, structured program that may include mentoring as one of the components. In many cases, school districts are providing mentoring and calling it induction. Mentoring alone has been shown to be relatively ineffective in reducing attrition. The research indicates an average of only up to a 2% reduction in many cases. The research has also shown that “bad” mentoring is worse than “no” mentoring. If a teacher is simply given a mentor teacher, the chances of having any kind of an impact on the retention of the new teacher are minimal. While mentoring can be very important, it is most effective when it is part of a comprehensive induction program and where the mentors have received training.