I have been musing for some time about what I am going to do with myself in relation to further education and qualifications. I withdrew from my PhD at the beginning of the year and have been trying to make up my mind what to do next...if anything.
I have come to the conclusion that I do need to get a PhD or doctorate if I want any chance of being involved in research at a university level. But now I have moved into generalist education, I have decided a doctorate in education will be of more use to me than a PhD.
So I am applying to enrol in the University of Otago's Doctor in Education program. I think the structure will suit me and keep me on track better than a PhD will. It certainly doesn't look like any less work, but the approach of the course leader, Professor Kwok-Wing Lai, is to develop a community of practice/learning with his students which will provide me with the motivation and support I need.
Let's hope I get accepted. If I do, I start my studies at the beginning of January 2011.
15 comments:
Sarah, this sounds like a wonderful fit! My fingers are crossed for you :-)
Thanks, Claire...I am pretty sure I'll get in :)
BTW, are you planning on taking part in the FO2010 mini conference?
Dear Sarah, I also encourage you to go for a doctorate in education. Being a really inspirational teacher is a good combination for a researcher!
Thank you Elina. How are you getting on with all your studies and research?
HI Sarah
Good on you for continuing study. As you imply, study is no pushover regardless of the pathway at the upper levels of education. I am a bit of a blast from the past by the way., and enjoyed your presentation at the recent DEANZ conference
Nancy
Thanks Nan...are you going to Share-e-fest in Hamilton, next week. If so...please do say 'hello'.
Sarah, I'm so pleased to you are going to pursue a Doctorate in Education. You have so much to offer! What will your topic/area be?
The million dollar question, thinkingmidwife, no idea at this stage...but something about elearning...social media...professional development...open education...to do with midwifery...or health...or teachers...in other words...no idea!!
Great! I'm enjoying the EdD so far... and still haven't decided on thesis either!
What are you leaning toward, AnneMarie?
We're going through big curriculum changes here which presents an interesting opportunity. I'm not really drawn to social media in medical education as a subject for a thesis- not when there is so much else we struggle to implement these days. But I may eat those words some day! We should have a chat on Skype:)
Great idea Sarah. I'm glad you've decided on this path and I'm sure it will be the right one. I wish you all the luck in the world.
I think I'll get on with something more structured, M-H. When do you finish your PhD?
Anne-Marie: We're starting to focus on experiential learning and how that impacts on design of courses...I may look at that more closely...I'll see.
I am planning to have my first draFt done in about March of next year, and to submit about a year later (March of 2012). Assuming there will be more work to be done after it's been examined, I want to be free of it by the end of 2012 even though I don't *have* to submit until August of 2013. I need to get it out of my life!
I expect an invite to your graduation party, M-H :)
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