New model for the mentoring program

[James D Carroll]

I'm new to Linux/Ubuntu and an aspiring MOTU. I've tried to get started
down the MOTU path (read some of the packaging doc and followed along
with the YouTube videos), but it just seems like so much; its
bewildering to the point where I don't feel I can even ask an
intelligent question. Not knowing the old model, I can't say if the new
one will be better. I will say, though, that if the key difference is a
_commitment_ to _progress_ then sign me up!

James






On Tue, 2008-07-15 at 11:36 +0200, Cesare Tirabassi wrote:
> Dear all,
> 
> the current mentoring program has been in place for about one year.
> 
> During this time several shortcomings of this model have become evident, 
> especially as the number of new contributors grow. The alternative sponsoring 
> model is also felt quite inadequate, especially for new contributors and 
> contributors which are on their way to motuship. 
> 
> What is evident today, is that: 
> 
> - Some MOTU have weaknesses in certain skill areas 
> - Those potential contributors who are not self-starters aren't getting
>   started 
> - There is an insufficient number of volunteers to act as Mentors
> - There is an insufficient number of volunteers to teach MOTU School classes
> - Many existing contributors have difficulty reaching a sufficient skill level
>   to apply for MOTU 
> 
> With the introduction of the ubuntu-universe-contributors team, it is finally 
> time that we implement the new structure, as we already discussed in [1] and 
> [2].
> 
> Our proposal is to split the Mentoring program into two parts:
> 
> - a program to help new contributors who wish personal attention when starting
> - a program to help established contributors who wish personal guidance when
>   applying for motuship
> 
> Furthermore, stronger ties with the current MOTU School program will be 
> established.
> All participants in the Mentoring program will be expected to attend MOTU 
> School sessions, and those not in regular attendance may no longer be 
> eligible for Mentoring.
> All contributors alike are expected to take an active role in preparing and 
> giving sessions on fields where they are particularly experienced, as well as 
> in general Q&A sessions.
> 
> The new program is detailed in:
> 
> https://wiki.ubuntu.com/MOTU/Mentoring/NewModel
> 
> Before finally implementing this change, we would like to hear from you, MOTU 
> and contributors alike, if you have any remaining objections or comment.
> 
> Cesare
> 
> [1]https://lists.ubuntu.com/archives/ubuntu-motu-mentors/2007-October/000153.html
> [2]https://lists.ubuntu.com/archives/ubuntu-motu/2007-November/002728.html
>