Students taking schooling at home will need someone supervising. A learning mentor is any adult who is responsible for learning instruction and support in the home.
It is not always possible for the parent to be the learning mentor. A mentor may be a parent, guardian, relative, friend, or tutor. Mentors, students and online instructors work as a team to help students successfully complete their online courses.
The first responsibility should be to determine if this type of education is suitable for the specific child. You would need to consider the following:
Do you have access to the required technology?
Do you have basic technology skills and a willingness to learn?
Is the student able to work independently?
Will you have time and skills to assist with learning?
Full-time online students learning from home benefit from the personal attention of a learning mentor who can provide daily encouragement and support in a way that meets a student's individual needs. While the role of the learning mentor may be slightly different as a student progresses from elementary to high school, an effective mentor is key to student success in an online environment.
Goal Setting and Timelines
schedule work time based on ministry required hours as outlined in course
establish clear expectations and guidelines
Organization
ensure resources are available
organize course materials
Course Progression
monitor progress on a daily or weekly basis
assist with timely submission of assignments
coach students to become self-directed and independent
oversee assignments
encourage academic excellence
Communication
interpret instructor feedback
communicate with online teachers and school administrators by phone and email
Accessing Sask DLC Supports
work with Sask DLC DLC Academic Advisors to ensure courses meet graduation requirements for Grades 10-12 students
as needed, work with Sask DLC Student Support Team to help manage learning challenges
For additional learning mentor supports, explore our free Resource Bank!
Saskatchewan Distance Learning Centre provides Kindergarten to Grade 12 courses to Saskatchewan students who choose to study online. We empower students and families to choose the learning environment that works best for them, while supporting their graduation plan.
Services