Vocational & Adult Education

Lee Herman & Alan Mandell (both of whom are colleagues and one, AM, a friend) have given us a sensitive, thought-provoking book that charts their experiences in the mentoring process. They see a significant distinction between modes of instruction that are teacher-centered and mentoring, in which knowledge is co-discovered. Their extensive interest and expertise in mentoring derives from work at Empire State College (State University of New York).

The book examines the concepts that underpin mentoring as an instructional process. Much of this examination is based on the art of dialogue and quotations from Plato abound. The main chapters include: What is mentoring? Principles of mentoring and philosophy of dialogue; asking question; waiting as learning; curriculum as collaborative learning; dialogue as cognitive love; mentor as learner; authenticity and artifice. In parts, perhaps, the text become a little too doctrinaire — pushing more for an intellectual framework than for a functional guide to initiating and sustaining the mentoring process.

The text is rich in examples and vignettes drawn from Lee and Alan’s extensive mentoring experience. Of particular interest is a quite beautiful series of “moments” between Jim and his overworked professor, who gradually grows into his mentor. The honestly of this sustained dialogue is remarkable and the feelings evoked — for both learner and mentor — contribute greatly to an understanding of the process of mentoring.

This is a warm, rich, and humane book. It is a delightful read. But more, it enriches and provides a deeper humanity to potential engagements between adult learners and mentors. It is a book that anyone who has engaged in mentoring will recognize as valuable and deeply appreciate. I am very happy that these remarkable scholars found the time to author such a thoughful text.

Rating: 5 / 5