Journal of Education & Social Policy

A Comparison of Face-To-Face and Videoconference Mentoring among Outpatient Physical and Occupational Therapists
Ann Marie Feretti, Lori Kupczynski—Corresponding author, Shannon Groff

Abstract
Physical and occupational therapists who have recently graduated and are beginning in their first professional positions often seek mentorship as they transition from school to clinical practice. The use of videoconference technology for mentoring meetings may provide more opportunities for novice clinicians to connect with experienced mentors to foster their professional growth and development. The purpose of these mixed methods, convergent design study was to compare the effectiveness of mentoring in face-to-face meetings to mentoring using videoconference meetings among newly graduated physical and occupational therapists. This study evaluated the effectiveness of mentoring meetings for physical and occupational therapy staff at a multi-site rehabilitation company. Results showed that there was no significant difference in the mentee’s perception of effectiveness in the four mentoring areas of work setting relationships, clinical skill knowledge/attainment, career path/future planning and their role in the organization. The qualitative responses supported the idea that both mentees and mentors found value in using videoconference mentoring.

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