Digital Communication and Mentor-ship: The Use of WhatsApp in Bishop Stuart University, Uganda

Abstract

The purpose of the study was to examine the effectiveness of using WhatsApp communication to achieve a successful mentor-ship experience for both the mentor and the mentee in Bishop Stuart University (BSU). Indepth interviews and focus group discussions were conducted on a sample of 62 respondents who included mentors, mentees and social media experts. The study was guided by the communication affordances theory. The study revealed that WhatsApp has introduced more potentialities for mentor-ship programmes in BSU. However, the opportunities come with several challenges such as limited access to digital tools, limited digital literacy among the mentors and mentees, poor internet connection, mentees and mentors’ fatigue, among others. To overcome the existing challenges, the study recommends a number measures including vigilant planning, adaptability, and clear communication.