Work

Electronic near peer mentoring: evaluating its effects on satisfaction and learning among medical education graduate students

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: OBJECTIVE: This study aimed to evaluate the feasibility, satisfaction, and learning outcomes associated with an electronic near-peer mentoring (ENPM) program for master's students in medical education. The program leveraged existing digital infrastructure to provide academic and psychosocial support through structured interactions between senior mentors and junior mentees. RESULTS: The program demonstrated high feasibility and was well-received. Satisfaction levels were notably high among both mentees (80%) and mentors (100%). Mentees reported significant academic (75%) and psychosocial (50%) benefits. However, perceived shared values (70% neutral) and structural support (40% agreed) were identified as areas for improvement. While mentors highly valued the supportive experience, a majority (57%) found it time-consuming. Academic performance, as measured by GPA, was high overall (18.14 ± 0.72), but no significant statistical correlation was found between satisfaction levels and GPA (ρ = 0.18, p = 0.31). The findings suggest ENPM is a promising model for scalable academic support in digital graduate education, with sustainability hinging on addressing time demands for mentors and enhancing structural support for mentees.

Source: BMC Research Notes

DOI: 10.1186/s13104-025-07462-2

Authors: Somaye Sohrabi, Masume Najarian, Masomeh Kalantarion

Institutions: Shahid Beheshti University, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences

Language: English

Topic: Mentoring and Academic Development

Subfield: Social Psychology

Field: Psychology

Domain: Social Sciences

SDG: Quality education

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $1,690