The Art of Collaborative Mentoring - A Practical Approach to Support Novice Teachers: Mentoring strategies to build effective teaching practices

Develop a knack for collaborative mentoring with the help of two seasoned educators.

Within the field of teaching, cultivating collaborative relationships among mentors and mentees is critical. But how do mentors draw from their wisdom and experience to effectively support novice teachers? Enter the Collaborative Mentoring Approach (CM²). Developed by qualified teaching professionals Shirley R. Lal and Carrie Ann Blackaller, the CM² is a process to develop reciprocal mentoring relationships to support the teaching practices and professional development of novice teachers.

In The Art of Collaborative Mentoring: A Practical Approach to Support Novice Teachers, Lal and Blackaller explain the Collaborative Mentoring Approach (CM²), illustrating how it promotes collegiality by sharing beliefs, knowledge, experiences, and cultures. With their tried-and-true system, mentors and mentees can work together to create transformative experiences in a reflective teaching and learning cycle. Drawing from years of combined experience, their approach includes comprehensive knowledge and skills mentors need to develop and sustain a mentoring relationship. A unique feature of the CM² is that it addresses both the WHAT and HOW of collaborative mentoring in six colorcoded domains. Each domain provides researchbased content (WHAT) that is aligned to supplemental materials (HOW) in a three-step process:

1. Acquire researchbased knowledge and skills via content.

2. Apply skills via supplemental materials - strategies/tools, activities, and real-world scenarios. 

3. Assess knowledge and skills via the Learning Outcomes Assessment Process.

Fundamental to the CM² is a dual emphasis on collaboration and professional development. The design and elements of the CM² offer a template for how positive interactions between colleagues contribute to mutual professional growth. One part of a complete program that includes a professional development training manual and PowerPoint presentations, the book is an ideal companion for prospective mentors in need of training, veteran teachers, school personnel, practicing mentors, and novice teachers. Additionally, the information, procedures, and materials included in the book are adaptable to any mentoring relationship and are also well suited to practicing teachers, administrators, educators, researchers, and even trainers interested in conducting professional development sessions.