Mentoring: An Essential Catalyst in Professional Development of Teaching Faculty and Medical Students

ABSTRACT Introduction: New entrants to medical colleges require achieving balance and developing study skills in the medical course. The process of mentoring thus involves several essential steps including transfer of knowledge and skills, learning effective communication, identifying the needs of the learner and acquiring techniques that are effective. The aim of the present study was to facilitate the student's performance in the subject and to evaluate the effectiveness of mentorship programme. Methodology: A cross sectional study was conducted on one hundred second semester MBBS students in the Department of Biochemistry, RUHS College of Medical Sciences, Jaipur. Mentorship programme was implemented over a period of four months. The marks of second semester were compared with the marks of first semester to analyse effectiveness of mentorship programme in context to improvement in performance. Database was collected in the form of feedback questionnaire. A theoretical thematic analysis was made and statistical analysis using t -test was done. Results: The mean+SD levels of theory and practical marks were statistically significant (p< 0.0001) in second semester when compared with marks of first semester examination. The transition of mentees to a higher score category post mentorship programme was observed. The trend was similar in theory and practical marks. Conclusion: Mentorship programme raises the performance bar of students and fosters the well being and professional growth of students. Role of mentors as teachers is enhanced. Institutions need to encourage and recognize the value of a mentoring relationship.