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The concept of "reverse mentoring" is an opportunity to engage younger coworkers in coaching cowarokers.

My mentor for this class, Stan, shared this with me. It made me feel better about my not so polished videos. I hope it can put others minds to rest, too!

"There are a variety of ways to learn from someone else's experience.  Start by reading and researching.  Libraries and the internet are great sources for exploration.  When using the internet, look for recognized and reliable sources.  There's lots of erroneous information on the web, so be discriminating. Attend classes.  You have many choices for live or online classes on virtually any subject that interests you.  If you're so inclined, you can work full or part time on a degree.  Adding academic credentials to your resume is always beneficial. Find a mentor who is an expert in the area you are interested in.  Offer to volunteer, apprentice, or intern.  Working with an authority in a particular field is a great way to acquire lots of experience quickly. Observe people who are already where you want to be.  You don't have to know them personally.  You can read about them, read books and articles they write, or follow media accounts of their exploits.  Join associations or professional groups in your area of interest.  They are an excellent opportunity to meet and connect with experienced people.  You will have many opportunities to ask questions and attend a variety of educational forums."

I found myself almost getting on board this article until I got to the end: "Don't waste time learning from your own experiences. Acquire an edge by learning from what others have already been through. Whatever your goals may be, there are those who have a lot to teach you because they have already traveled your path." I believe there is great benefit to being reflective on one's own actions and experiences. At the end of the day, we certainly can learn and make connections through other's experiences, but frankly we go to bed, and wake up, as ourselves every day. The more we understand and know ourselves the better we can be accurate guides.

" The mentors seemed to effortlessly navigate the onslaught of information and identify the most pertinent information and then tweet it or post it in a way that was intriguing to the reader.  I want to be able to do this!!! I think the ultimate thing the availability of all the information does is make one appreciate the importance of being a student of life and to never stop seeking ways to grow.  Therein lies the modeling and mentorship of the digital age professor!"

This could be a checklist for ALL professional development across education and, I suspect, other fields as well. Personalized, customized, sustained.