Georgia Tech and the University of Georgia have developed BreakThru, an NSF-sponsored virtual mentoring community to provide students with support in STEM subjects. BreakThru pairs students who may have learning difficulties or who are struggling with STEM coursework with mentors drawn from college faculty, K-12 teachers, and industry. It uses the virtual world Second Life to connect mentors and mentees in a powerful, as well as other communication platforms to facilitate a meaningful e-mentoring relationship that may benefit these Georgia Tech students.
Student mentees must undergo an application and training process to participate in BreakThru, and they will be expected to complete the project modules and routinely meet with their mentors. For students who complete these required activities and our project surveys, we will offer them a stipend of up to $200 per term.
BreakThru has demonstrated success in student learning outcomes during its first three years for students selected to be a part of the project. For students with learning needs or difficulties, we believe this may be a worthwhile opportunity for them. An informative flyer is attached, and you may obtain more information by e-mail Ms. Summer Ienuso at summer.ienuso@coa.gatech.edu. Students also may visit the project website at http://georgiabreakthru.org/.
