MENTORING AS AN INSTRUCTIONAL APPROACH IN A GRADUATE ORGANIZATION DEVELOPMENT COURSE

This research study explored mentoring experiences of mentee as well as mentor within an introductory graduate organization development course. The study was guided by three research questions. This qualitative research study followed a phenomenological research design, which aligned with two data collection methods, that is document review of mentee’s assignments and interviews with mentors. The data was analyzed using Giorgi’s analysis (1985) a 4-step analysis technique. The findings of the study underscored the reciprocal nature of mentoring relationship and acknowledged benefits for mentor and mentee. The recommendations made by this study could contribute to academic mentoring research and possibly influence the use of mentoring as an instructional approach in the HRD programs. In addition, this research could provide knowledge on how to create learning experiences that integrate academia, business, and industry. The research study was not without limitations and further research on mentoring in different education fields is recommended.