Scoping the Potential for Anytime-Anywhere Support Through Virtual Mentors

Abstract Anytime-anywhere student support is a growing area of investigation as indicated by its inclusion in a range of University policies and academic research. A range of technologies can be applied to support teaching and learning, however they have limitations in providing students with anytime-anywhere support. This article proposes a holistic approach, which blends different available technologies in a Virtual Mentor. A Virtual Mentor is not normally intended to replace a human mentor but can offer support when a human mentor is not available. This new approach is contrasted with currently used technologies to show its advantages.