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New mentoring scheme launched

17/09/2008
 
 
The deaf mentoring scheme is believed to be the first of its kind in the world and partners new students with a peer who is also deaf and can provide guidance and support during the first stages of university.
 
Around 15 deaf and hard of hearing students start at the University of Wolverhampton each academic year and a group of five current students have undertaken extensive training in preparation for the new term.
 
Support can range from explaining how the Learning Centres and computer systems work, the opening times of the student support offices and who to talk to if you are having any problems.
 
The project is being developed by the Institute for Learning Enhancement (ILE) with the Communication Support Unit and Deaf Studies lecturers.
 
Matthew Bates, Student Mentoring Co-ordinator, said: “The mentors will meet with new students for an hour each week to help them make the transition into higher education. Starting university can be daunting for any new student, but if you are not able to communicate with the majority of students it can feel isolating. All the mentors have said they would have taken up the opportunity when they first started, so they are happy to help.
 
“It is quite an exciting programme and we have already been asked to attend a conference to share what we have developed. The positive effect doubles as the people who have been mentored will want to help out next year and give something back to the new students.”

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