Realizing Shulman's Vision: Carnegie Project on the Education Doctorate–Affiliated Program Graduates Influence Professional Practice

• In Event: 46.054 - Doctoral Career Motivation and Trajectories

Abstract

Shulman et al. (2006) advocated redesigning EdD programs to better prepare graduates for actual school leadership practice. We examined what graduates of a CPED-affiliated EdD program were doing in their professional practices following program completion. In particular, we explored the sustainability of graduates’ action research dissertation work, and whether and how they continued to lead, foster innovation, conduct action research, and collaborate. Interviews were conducted and analyzed. Results showed graduates had taken new positions, assumed greater responsibilities including leadership duties, and continued to influence their workplaces. They were stronger leaders, innovators, and collaborators and researching professionals. Thus, new EdD programs envisioned by Shulman are becoming realities, which offer hope to our schools for dealing with perplexing educational problems of practice.

Authors

• Ray R. Buss, Arizona State University

• Ron Zambo, Arizona State University

• Debby M. Zambo, Carnegie Project on the Education Docorate