Abstract
Introduction: This research project focused on the experiences and perspectives of mentoring relationships of current orthodontic junior registrars thus far in their career. At present there is limited research conducted on mentoring relationships in an orthodontic context and there is no formal mentorship programme officially integrated into UK postgraduate education.Aim: This qualitative study aims to gain an insight into current UK based junior orthodontic
trainees’ (ST1-ST3) perspectives of mentoring.
Methodology: Semi-structured one to one interviews (n=5) were undertaken with a blended approach of face-to-face and virtual online interviews with purposeful sampling of orthodontic registrars on the south-west training scheme. The interviews were audio recorded and then transcribed verbatim with a reflexive approach to thematic analysis used to analyse the results by myself as the primary researcher.
Results: A total of four themes were identified from the results: the benefits of mentoring – what am I getting out of this?, “building the ideal mentor” – what should they look like?, the dynamics of the relationship – the ins and outs and barriers. The participants past experiences appeared to heavily influence their perspectives on mentorship.
Conclusion: The participants perceptions highlighted the complex nature of mentoring relationships and an awareness of the personal and professional benefits of these professional relationships. They demonstrated a clear perspective of desirable mentor qualities, the factors which contributed towards their success and the numerous barriers to mentorship. The social nature and use of discussion within learning in an orthodontic context was also highlighted.
| Date of Award | 23 Jan 2024 |
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| Original language | English |
| Awarding Institution |
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| Supervisor | Julie C Williams (Supervisor), Ellayne M Fowler (Supervisor), Steve Jennings (Supervisor) & Farnaz Parvizi (Supervisor) |