Date of Award

2017

Document Type

Dissertation

Degree Name

Doctor of Education

Department

Education

First Advisor

Dr. Stephen Sherblom

Second Advisor

Dr. Carrie Schwierjohn

Third Advisor

Dr. Heather Hayes

Abstract

The purpose of this qualitative action research study was to explore the benefits and challenges of e-mentoring an adult learner in a rural state school for the deaf that taught children with hearing loss to listen and speak. This school lacked the benefit of a spoken language programs for deaf children. This study focused on e-mentoring the Lead Teacher/SLP, in order to enhance her understanding of language development in children with hearing loss and improve her ability to use diagnostic teaching, in order to implement strategies that would allow the children in this specialized classroom to continue to develop spoken language. Through use of synchronous and asynchronous e-mentoring, I assisted the mentee as she developed a plan specifically focused on providing her with the skills needed to lead/direct the program independently, in order for it to continue successfully.

The mentee and supervisory/administrative staff were participants of this study. The mentee participated in the e-mentoring process twice each month, for 30-45 minutes per session, for one academic school year. The mentee typically guided the topic of the e-mentoring session by asking for assistance in a particular instructional area. On alternate weeks, I was in contact with the mentee via email, text, and/or phone. After e-mentoring, I completed a journal entry with my thoughts about the session and the mentee responded to questions about the e-mentoring experience. At the conclusion of the academic year, I conducted a focus group with the supervisors and administrators of the spoken language program asking for input about this new program. Secondary data were collected from vocabulary and concept tests on the children attending the program using. Results from the journaling and responses to questions and focus group were coded and analyzed for emerging themes. One major themes was Change, with subthemes of opportunities, e-mentoring the spoken language program, progress of the children, perceptions of the program, increase in enrollment, and scheduling. Other major themes included Andragogy and e-mentoring, Teaching Strategies, and Technology. The results of this study may be important to administrative personnel in state schools for the deaf, interested in initiating a spoken language classroom.

Rights

Copyright 2017

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