Home PublicationsJRTEPast IssuesVolume 34 Number 1

	Edited by Dr. David J. Ayersman, Mary Washington College, and Dr. W. Michael Reed, New York University
formerly Journal of Research on Computing in Education

Volume 34 Number 1 Fall 2001

Supporting Peer–Peer and Mentor–Protégé Relationships on the Internet

Sheryl Burgstahler and Deb Cronheim
University of Washington

Abstract
This study explores whether computer-mediated communication can be used to initiate and sustain peer–peer and mentor–protégé relationships and alleviate barriers to in-person communication faced by individuals with disabilities. It also compares peer–peer and mentor–protégé e-mail interactions. Content of e-mail messages exchanged between high school students with disabilities (49) and adult mentors (35) along with survey and focus group data were analyzed. Results support the electronic community as a favorable environment in which to provide peer and mentor support for high school students with disabilities. Results suggest that peer–peer and mentor–protégé relationships perform similar functions; however, peer–peer relationships are more personal. Conclusions can guide programs that wish to help youth advance their personal, academic, and career goals.

Contributors

Sheryl Burgstahler is an affiliate associate professor in the College of Education at the University of Washington (UW). She is also the assistant director of information systems and the director of DO-IT (Disabilities, Opportunities, Internetworking, and Technology) at UW. DO-IT has been the recipient of many awards, including The National Information Infrastructure Award in Education, the Presidential Award for Excellence in Mentoring, and the Golden Apple Award. She has authored or co-authored six books about the use of the Internet to support curriculum in the K–12 classroom.

Deb Cronheim is research coordinator for project DO-IT at UW. Her responsibilities include project evaluation, technical communication, and coordination of an outreach program for youth with disabilities.

Contact

Sheryl Burgstahler
Box 354842
University of Washington
Seattle, WA 98105-4842
sherylb@cac.washington.edu

Copyright © 2001, ISTE (International Society for Technology in Education). All rights reserved.