So the next time one of your relatives asks you what you’ve learned over the summer, you can pull out a tablet and write some python code as a neat party trick. This will also immediately label you as a tech-person of the family, so take that advice with a grain of salt.
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Refer to a material published on 03 December 2020 on https://www.nature.com/
Link to original article : https://www.nature.com/articles/s41587-020-00758-7
Following is a brief summary:
The art of virtual mentoring in the twenty-first century for STEM majors and beyond
Social quarantine has severely impacted the training of new scientists, but the use of virtual platforms can supplement mentorship, making career development seamless.
What is virtual mentoring?
Virtual mentoring enables the exchange of information through the use of one or more digital platforms.
Zoom
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Audio and video call application
Skype
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Audio and video call application
Trello
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Project management tool
Slack
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Collaboration software
BlueJeans
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Video conferencing application
Twitter
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Social media platform
Facebook
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Social media platform
WeChat
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Messaging app
WhatsApp
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Messaging app
QQ
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Messaging app
LINE
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Messaging app
KAIKO talk
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Messaging app
Table above : Virtual mentoring platforms, with application type
Pros
Flexible and time-efficient
Less judgmental form of communication
Meetings can be recorded (obtain permission)
Chat feature for general and direct messages
Allows for useful multitasking and immediate information sharing Partaking in virtual meetings may intimidate participants, especially those who are shy
Meeting participants are not limited by physical distance
Accurate automated written transcription
Cons
Requires stable internet connection and a working electronic device
Lack confidentiality (see Zoom bombing)
Virtual meetings may not capture the ambience of in-person meetings
Participants may experience discomfort sharing their surrounding environment
Facilitating virtual mentoring sessions
Setting up the virtual mentoring space
Agenda
Tell stories of failure before success
Build your team
Ask about their well-being
End the meeting
How long and how often?
Holding frequent meetings allows mentors to reassure their trainees and demonstrate that mentors care about the well-being and success of their trainees.
The article focuses on virtual mentoring, but this helps in making one further think and apply modern technology in their business, organizations, and even educational institutions like schools and tuition centers.