Title: Inter-generational e-mentoring via voice over internet protocol video conferencing

Authors: Evi Wusk; Kelly Kingsley

Addresses: School of Education, Peru State College, P.O. Box 10, Peru, NE 68410, USA ' Wake Robin Elementary, 700 Lincoln Road, South Bellevue, NE 68005, USA

Abstract: The increased influx of online video conferencing continues to open unexplored avenues for educational connections. This paper describes a qualitative research study in which two practitioner researchers implement and examine cross-generational literacy pairings in the Midwest USA. While employing an inquiry stance (Cochran-Smith and Lytle, 2009), the practitioners' intent was to increase connections and literacy skills within mentor pairings of third grade and senior high school students. The two classes, from different school districts, met via video voice over internet protocol (VoIP) calls during this five-month study. The research reveals a deeper understanding of student engagement, leadership, and connectedness within this learning community formed with the intent of increasing literacy practices and connectedness.

Keywords: mentoring; e-mentoring; online video conferencing; literacy skills; leadership; connectedness; community; relationships; technology; voice over internet protocol; VoIP; inter-generational; USA; United States; senior high school students; third grade students; student engagement.

DOI: 10.1504/IJSMILE.2013.055739

International Journal of Social Media and Interactive Learning Environments, 2013 Vol.1 No.3, pp.255 - 269

Received: 02 Nov 2012
Accepted: 03 Jan 2013
Published online: 28 Feb 2014 *

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