E-Mentoring
In response to an initial enquiry from a school in the region the School of Languages, Cultures and Area Studies embarked on a scheme based on an existing project by UCL called Cross-Call http://www.ucl.ac.uk/crosscall/
University students provided support for groups of sixth form students for between 1-2 hours per week via a virtual platform, in response to requests for help.
The scheme is designed to expand students learning experience beyond the classroom and out of school hours and raise the profile of modern languages, identified as a vulnerable subject.
University students provide encouragement and motivation, to assist with language learning and enrich cultural experience.
They help students by suggesting resources and giving some language input offering pupils ideas and guidance for their work and act as role-models for pupils and promote the study of modern languages.
The scheme draws on existing university expertise and resources including the School of Languages, Cultures and Area Studies (CLAS) dedicated Widening Participation (WP) Officer, WP staff in charge of existing e-mentoring schemes, CLAS staff skilled in e-learning and members of the university IT team with regard to technical support.
Example of resources shared between students and their e-mentor 