How does mentoring work in the SAAI Research Program?

Mentoring provides structure without replacing the learner’s responsibility for the work. A mentor helps the student refine the research question, select an achievable scope, identify prerequisites, review datasets, evaluate experimental plans and interpret results. During the project, the mentor can identify misconceptions, recommend remedial learning and challenge unsupported conclusions. Reviews focus on both the technical artifact and the reasoning behind it. Assistance is recorded so that SAAI can distinguish independent evidence from work completed after extensive support. The learner remains responsible for building, documenting and defending the project. This approach is intended to develop research independence rather than create a polished artifact that the student cannot explain.