A structured programme to develop novice researchers at the University of South Africa

Abstract

The article reports the views of mentors forming part of a structured mentoring programme to develop novice researchers in one college at the University of South Africa. The study was conceptualised according to the constructivist learning theory and the self-efficacy theory. The survey determined the views of 36 mentors by means of a questionnaire. It was found that the majority of the mentors are dedicated to the project. A number of challenges were identified, including a lack of quality time for the project, inadequate institutional support and a lack of training in certain issues, including the influence of mentoring style, how to negotiate rules and give feedback, how to deal with gender and cultural differences, and how to address negative mentee emotions.