ERIC Number: EJ1272388
Record Type: Journal
Publication Date: 2020
Pages: N/A
Abstractor: As Provided
ISBN: N/A
ISSN: EISSN-1556-3847
EISSN: N/A
Dissertation Committee Chairs' Current Practices to Support Doctoral Students in an Online Doctoral Program
Burrington, Debra; Madison, Rae Denise; Schmitt, Alexa
Online Journal of Distance Learning Administration, v23 n3 Fall 2020
The purpose of this research study was to explore dissertation chair experiences and current practices for meeting with and providing feedback to doctoral students pursuing a scholar-practitioner terminal degree in an online doctoral program. A qualitative methodology using an exploratory design was employed to interview 11 participants using semi-structured interviews. The findings included the importance of providing frequent feedback through various modes of communication, emphasizing a tailored approach to the students' needs. Timely, thorough feedback was supported, stressing effectiveness and relevancy, which was most commonly achieved through one-on-one communication. Additional considerations focused on trust building and caring behaviors; individualized coaching and guidance; and balancing institutional requirements and student needs.
Descriptors: Doctoral Dissertations, Doctoral Students, College Faculty, Committees, Electronic Learning, Feedback (Response), Interpersonal Communication, Trust (Psychology), Caring, Mentors, Coaching (Performance), Individual Needs, Scholarship
State University of West Georgia. 1601 Maple Street, Honors House, Carrollton, GA 30118. Tel: 678-839-5489; Fax: 678-839-0636; e-mail: distance@westga.edu; Web site: http://www.westga.edu/~distance/ojdla
Publication Type: Journal Articles; Reports - Research
Education Level: Higher Education; Postsecondary Education
Audience: N/A
Language: English
Sponsor: N/A
Authoring Institution: N/A
Grant or Contract Numbers: N/A