Abstract:
Introduction:
The mentoring activity can be seen as a special relationship between mentor and mentee, which can contribute to the transition from high school to university. In 2020, amid the Covid-19 pandemic, there was a sudden shift from face-to-face academic activities to meetings using digital platforms, triggering changes in the educational strategy of medical schools, and, consequently, impacting mentoring activities.
Experience report:
Through discourse analysis of accounts given by mentors of first year medical students at a private university in 2020, we discussed the records made in real time after each weekly meeting in an exclusive virtual room, in which they could freely share their experiences, impressions, considerations and testimonies about the development of each mentoring session.
Discussion:
Mentoring is not just about academic performance and provides a broader view of issues related to the student and their context, favoring the development of the teacher (mentor), student (mentee) and even the institution. The change to digital platforms was not a problem, as those involved swiftly adapted accordingly. The perception of belonging and participation in the group were important factors in the development of mentoring and the healthy reception of students and mentors demonstrated a strengthening in the sense of self humanity.
Conclusion:
Mentees and mentors cultivated a space for discussing their routines in the development of teaching and learning. In view of the atypical epidemiological scenario, there was a perception that students faced similar problems and sought suggestions for solutions together. Mentors concluded that a common, formal schedule for mentoring sessions should not be applied routinely.
Keywords:
Medical Education; Mentoring; Academic Performance; Covid-19