One goal of Co-operative Education is to facilitate the transition of students from academic study to employment. The employer s role in this education is crucial - you not only teach the students practical skills which complement their academic studies, but also help them to develop employability skills, an awareness of the working world, and a career direction.
Some employers establish a mentor for the co-op student.
The role of the mentor is usually taken on by someone other than the supervisor. This is someone in the organization who maintains contact on a regular basis with both the student and the supervisor to ensure the work semester is progressing well. Review job responsibilities past, present and future. Discuss work performance. Review learning objectives.