An Analysis of Mentoring Traits and Themes Influential in the Retention of Minority Students at the United States Naval Academy

Abstract

This study was designed to examine mentoring of minority midshipmen at the United States Naval Academy (USNA). Mentoring has long been practiced in the business world to introduce new employees to their new assignments, positions, or jobs. This study searched for the effects of mentoring on Black and White male midshipmen and examined the distinguishing features that make mentoring a positive experience for the mentor and prot g alike. Additionally, this study looked at the features of mentoring that may influence minority midshipmen to remain at the USNA and in the United States Navy as well. Focus groups with over 50 participants were conducted and content analyzed for reliable themes. Although there seems to be mistrust of faculty and staff, upperclassmen are an invaluable and sought after source of specific information. Further, minorities especially seek networks such as sports teams and Black clubs for support. In such homogeneous networks, minority midshipmen are less likely to feel vulnerable or inadequate when seeking information.

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Document Details

Document Type
Technical Report
Publication Date
Jun 01, 2004
Accession Number
ADA424838

Entities

People

  • Demetrius Wilkins

Organizations

  • Naval Postgraduate School

Tags

Communities of Interest

  • Human Systems

DTIC Thesaurus Topics

  • Active Duty
  • African Americans
  • Commerce
  • Education
  • Electronic Mail
  • Employment
  • Ethnic Groups
  • Families (Human)
  • Instructors
  • Mentoring
  • Mentors
  • Minority Groups
  • Personnel Management
  • Students
  • Training
  • United States
  • United States Naval Academy

Fields of Study

  • Education

Readers

  • Military Leadership and Professional Education.
  • STEM Education
  • Theoretical Analysis.